For the first time in over six years, the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea, has not called for a complete halt to cod fishing ahead of negotiations at the European fisheries council where catch allocations are agreed.

Lochhead said:

“This reflects the substantial effort made by Scottish fishermen and confirms what we and our fishermen have been saying – that North Sea cod stocks are recovering. The ICES advice confirms what we set out in our recent blueprint for North Sea cod which provides the best route toward a sustainable cod fishery.

“The terms of the debate have changed. Thanks to all the sacrifices Scottish and other fishermen have made we are now talking not about getting recovery started, but about rebuilding what already well underway. While some of Scotland's key stocks are healthy, the science for others is challenging. That points to tough negotiations ahead in the weeks to come.”

Related news items:

• Action on seasonal workers welcomed
• Animal diseases funding announced
• Arran concern over fish farm impact
• Biggest wood-fired power station in UK opened
• Bluetongue checks required