Written question asked by Lady Hermon (Ulster Unionist Party) on Thursday, 1 December 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 5 December 2005. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Basildon (Labour) on Thursday, 8 December 2005 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Isle of Man (Fishing Jurisdiction)

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what (a) discussions, (b) meetings and (c) correspondence he has had with the Isle of Man Government in relation to the extent of its fishing jurisdiction; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: There have been no discussions or meetings between the Isle of Man Government and Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Ministers in relation to extent of the Isle of Man's fishing jurisdiction. DEFRA Ministers have had correspondence from the Isle of Man Government regarding their proposal to extend the fishing jurisdiction around the island from three to 12 miles. DEFRA consulted stakeholders on this proposal in the summer and a decision on the outcome of the consultation will be communicated to the Isle of Man Government in due course.

Secondary information