Rural Affairs and Environment Committee, 01 Oct 2008

Meeting date: Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Official Report 198KB pdf

---

European Union Issues

We move to agenda item 4. A paper was circulated to members, and one key development mentioned is the announcement of the common fisheries policy health check. There is not much more that I can say. If any further information is required, it can be provided by the clerks.

The paper touches on most of the main issues, but one of the most conspicuous omissions is the consultation on animal transport restrictions, which I understand began in July or August. I do not know whether the French presidency intends to take it forward to any great extent, but I would certainly welcome an update.

My understanding is that Commissioner Borg has agreed with member states to bring forward the common fisheries policy health check. It would be helpful to know whether that is the case and, if so, by how much he is bringing it forward. Given the battle last time to preserve things such as relative stability, the Shetland box and the 6 to 12-mile limits, and given the end to subsidy for new build, it would be interesting to know the likely negotiating priorities of the Scottish Government and perhaps the United Kingdom Government and—although it might be guesswork—the possible approaches of the other key member states, particularly Spain and France.

We will get that information to you.