Shaw sets out UK priorities at EU Fisheries Council
Fisheries Minister, Jonathan Shaw presented the priorities for the UK at a meeting of fisheries ministers from across the EU in Luxembourg today. The main item for discussion was the forthcoming negotiations between the EU and Norway on a bilateral fisheries agreement for 2008. These negotiations are of particular importance to the UK and account for over half of all landings into the UK.
Mr Shaw said:
“It is essential to seek fishing opportunities for next year that are consistent with the scientific advice that stocks are improving, and that reflect the reality of what fishermen are finding.
“We want to work to improve genuine fishing opportunities but also to reduce discards. That is the way to achieve a sustainable fishery. “
On other matters discussed in Council, Mr Shaw made it clear that he has made, and will continue to make, representations to the European Commission on behalf of the UK pressing for a level playing field for all member states on the payback of overfished quota.
Page published: 23 October 2007