Prawn catch cut concerns raised

The EU has proposed significant cuts in prawn catch quotas

Concerns over the impact on the Scots fishing industry of proposed cuts to prawn catch quotas have been taken to the European Union.

MP Michael Moore has held talks with fisheries commissioner Joe Borg.

He said a reduction in quotas could have a serious effect on the industry in his Berwickshire constituency.

Mr Moore said that he had pressed that point to Mr Borg and said he believed there was still "scope for change" in the proposals.

The European Union has proposed significant reductions in prawn quotas next year.

Mr Moore said that they could have a serious impact on the industry in Scotland.

"The prawn quotas for 2008 ought to be rolled over to 2009 as the technical factors affecting this year's fishing are the most significant considerations," he said.

"There is still some way to go for the commission to accept that, but it is clear that they are aware of the real difficulties in prospect in Berwickshire if the proposals do not change.

"Defra and the Scottish Government now need to press ahead with the serious scientific negotiations to prevent a potentially disastrous implementation of these very severe, precautionary measures."

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