Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) has been thoroughly discussed in 2009 and in 2010 the European Commission’s vision for the European fisheries is set out in the Green Paper. It is informed that the European fisheries is in line with Fisheries 2027, a long-term vision for sustainable fisheries (PDF 2MB), which we published in 2007, following widespread consultation.
The paper extensively discussed the ways of achieving sustainable fisheries through CFP reform. In September 2009 Defra invited everyone with an interest in fisheries and the marine environment to help us to develop the UK response to the Green Paper by replying to the questions in our discussion paper.
The main topics are ensuring fish stocks within safe biological limits; a prosperous and efficient fishing industry; recognition of the contribution of fishing to local communities; and fisheries management integrated with marine conservation. These four elements are top priorities for CFP reform and will help to deliver healthy ecosystems.
And to achieve this various views are needed from a wide range of organisations and individuals on the discussion paper, including holding meetings, hosted with the Marine and Fisheries Agency, in Penzance, Plymouth, Brixham, Fleetwood, North Shields, Portsmouth Grimsby and Scarborough.
The UK agrees with the European Commission that the CFP has not succeeded in achieving sustainable fisheries and has welcomed the Commission’s Green Paper consulting on options for the reform of the CFP.
