Fishing threat 'will be resisted'

It is argued skippers could catch less fish but be able to land more

Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead has told MSPs he will fiercely resist calls from the European Commission to close some Scottish fishing grounds.

Mr Lochhead described a threat to waters west of Shetland ahead of annual talks as "draconian" and "devastating".

Scottish Fishermen's Federation chief executive Bertie Armstrong acknowledged a problem with some fish stocks.

However, it is feared a complete west coast shutdown could displace fishing effort into the North Sea.

Mr Lochhead, who was speaking after giving evidence to the rural affairs and environment committee, said: "There is no question that we face some difficult negotiations and decisions in the weeks ahead.

"However I remain absolutely determined to fight for the best possible outcome for the Scottish sector again this year. In the current economic climate these talks are more important than ever.

"Our priorities include resisting the commission's unacceptable ideas for the west coast and ensuring our fishermen no longer need to throw thousands of tonnes of North Sea cod overboard."

'More intelligent'

Mr Armstrong has called for policies which would lead to a reduction in the amount of fish discarded which would allow skippers to catch less, but land more.

He said: "The Scottish fishing industry will be pressing for a more intelligent approach to stock conservation that will provide real solutions.

"With the present backdrop of world economic downturn, there has never been a more important time for government and industry to unite in preserving a sustainable, renewable resource of world-class food production on our own doorstep."

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