At a recent meeting of the NFFO Shellfish Committee considered the way forward on crab and lobster conservation. It is told that Defra has mentioned the issue of crab and lobster conservation subject to consultation. It has favoured a pot limitation scheme that would cap effort at present levels. Defra has also stressed that there is a window of opportunity to introduce significant conservation measures, relatively painlessly, whilst crab and lobster stocks are reasonably healthy.
Different views expressed at the meeting which reflected the differences around the coast, which in turn often reflect material differences in the fishery. Whilst in Northumberland a pot limitation scheme is seen as having its attractions over an increased minimum landing size, on the Yorkshire Coast the problems of enforcing a pot limitation scheme are underlined and a strong case for an increased minimum landing size as an alternative is made. Cornwall, Devon and the Welsh coasts likewise have their distinctive perspectives.
Experts told that due to this diversity of views there are different and valid approaches to shellfish conservation and that is why NFFO shellfish policy has always stressed a strong regional dimension. According to the Committee progress could be made through a national shellfish conference in which active shell-fishermen could express their views on the way forward at European, national and regional levels, and where it would be possible to discuss the options with fishermen and shellfish experts from countries with successful shellfish management regime.
