The Scottish government would like to take a lead in fisheries talks

The Scottish Fishermen's Federation (SFF) welcomed the move to involve them more closely with government and described the meeting as constructive.

The new minister will be supported by the SFF at EU talks next week.

On Wednesday, Mr Lochhead had his first formal meeting with his UK counterpart Ben Bradshaw in London and said it was the start of a new era.

Mr Lochhead's visit to Whitehall was discussed during the meeting with the SFF along with the European Union talks to be held in Luxembourg next week.

The presence of SFF representatives at the talks will be the first time they have been officially involved at such a high level.

The issue for us is to see evidence that the needs of the Scottish fishing industry are taken into proper account Bertie Armstrong SFF

Bertie Armstrong, the SFF chief executive, said: "The real issue for us is to see evidence that the needs and aspirations of the Scottish fishing industry are taken into proper, realistic account in decision-making and policy formation."

He said they also discussed the "immediate issues" affecting the industry including the prospects for next year's catching opportunity in key Scottish fisheries.

"Following today's talks, we are confident that the first steps in the right direction are being taken," Mr Armstrong said.

The SNP administration at Holyrood has said it would like to take the lead at future European Union talks, as most UK fishing takes place in Scottish waters.

This will be rejected by the UK Government.

However, a joint statement issued by the two administrations, after the meeting of Mr Lochhead and Mr Bradshaw, said they believed they could work together for the benefit of Scotland and the UK.