BORDERS MP CHALLENGES MINISTER OVER PLIGHT OF FISHING INDUSTRY

8.48.27am GMT Sun 8th Jun 2008

Borders MP Michael Moore has today challenged the Minister of State for Scotland at Scottish Questions in the House of Commons over the plight of the fishing industry.

A combination of climate conditions leading to poor fishing in the Farne Deeps, together with the relentless rise in the cost of fuel keeping many boats in harbour, have resulted in the catch being down as much as 50% this year. This is having a knock-on effect on the wider fish processing industry in Berwickshire, including the ice plant in Eyemouth, and leading to genuine concerns about the livelihoods of the many people in the areas who depend on the industry.

Mr Moore, the Liberal Democrat Shadow Secretary of State for Scotland, raised these concerns with the Minister and sought assurances that, since there are clear specific reasons for the smaller catch this year, there would be no knock-on reduction in the quota next year. Mr Moore has also written to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to urge him to take immediate steps to mitigate the impact of high fuel prices on the fishing sector.

Speaking after the exchange in the House of Commons, Mr Moore said:

"I know from recent meetings with senior representatives of the fishing industry that, this year, they have seen some of the worst fishing that there has been for a long time. The ever-increasing cost of fuel is contributing to the growing problem.

"The Spanish, French and German governments have taken advantage of exemptions which allow them to assist their fishing industries with the price of fuel, and I am therefore urging our Government to implement a similar scheme in the UK as soon as practicable.

"Many people in Berwickshire depend, directly or indirectly, on fishing for their livelihoods. The present situation is very serious indeed, and I will be doing all I can to ensure that the Government fully understands the concerns of the fishermen and is taking every necessary step to support them."