Consultation on New Controls in the Scottish King Scallop Fishery 2014 - Outcome Report

Executive Summary

This document provides an analysis of responses to Marine Scotland's 'Consultation on New Controls in the Scottish King Scallop Fishery 2014'. A copy of the consultation can be found at: http://www.gov.scot/Publications//2014/10/8468.

The consultation sought views on:

• Increasing the minimum landing size of king scallops ( Pecten maximus)
• Introducing new restrictions associated with the use of dredges
• Changes to licensing arrangements to restrict the upsizing of replacement vessels
• Placing new restrictions on the time that vessels can spend at sea

Summary of responses

When multiple identical responses are excluded, there were 64 substantive responses to the consultation. A broad cross-section of society was represented; from those whose living is dependent on the fishery, to environmental groups and local authorities.

Outcome

Following the consultation, Marine Scotland will introduce legislation to:

• Increase the standard minimum landing size of scallops to 105 mm
• Introduce a standard bar length restriction within 12 nautical miles that limits vessels to 8 dredges per side

Recent changes to the licensing of vessels fishing for scallops will also help to restrict future increases in effort in the fishery:

• The scallop entitlements of those Scottish-registered vessels that have not prosecuted the fishery in the past six years have been suspended
• Changes to licensing rules that restrict the ability of vessel owners to increase the power of replacement vessels

The proposed management measures for Marine Protected Areas will also impact on the activity of scallop dredgers in Scottish waters.

It is not proposed, at this point, to introduce any restrictions on the time that vessels can spend at sea. However, it is recommended that measures to limit effort in the fishery are explored with the other UK Fisheries Administrations to help to minimise displacement and ensure business flexibility is maintained.

Marine Scotland will keep the management of the fishery under review to ensure long-term sustainability.