EU urgency is "fishy" says MEP

12.00.00am GMT Fri 20th Nov 2009

Graham brought Fisheries Commissioner Joe Borg to the South West to impress upon him the importance of fishing to the region

Local MEP Graham Watson has warned the Government not to risk the health of the region's fishing industry by attempting to avoid European Parliament scrutiny of proposed fishing laws.

European governments are debating new rules aimed at conserving fish stocks which could penalise South West fishermen if they are not properly thought through. Industry officials believe that the issue is being rushed through before the Treaty of Lisbon kicks in and MEPs get a say.

Watson said;

"The Treaty of Lisbon means that Europe will make better rules. The Government should not be scared of the European Parliament because it listens to the views and needs of local fishing industries.

"It is important that Europe works together to protect fish stocks, but governments must realise a great many people rely on a healthy fishing industry. That is why the rules must be carefully considered."