Fisheries Minister Richard Benyon today met with fishing industry representatives, ministers from the devolved administrations, and environmental NGOs to discuss the UK’s position for December Fish Council.
There was widespread agreement that the European Commission’s approach to quota allocations needed to be based on scientific evidence and also ensure that discards are reduced.
Speaking after the meeting, Richard Benyon said:
“I place huge importance on working closely with the fishing industry, environmental organisations, and ministers from Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales so that UK fishing interests are fully represented in talks with the EU.
“We have agreed that UK fishing interests must not be disadvantaged during quota discussions for 2012. We need to continue to work together to achieve our shared goal of a thriving and sustainable fishing industry.”