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Fisheries: Protection

Answer

We are unable to confirm the position at a UK level as fisheries protection is a devolved matter. However, the Royal Navy Fishery Protection Squadron comprises of 3 offshore patrol vessels of which one is currently tasked to meet the contractual commitment to the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) for the purposes of fisheries enforcement in England.

The number of RN Offshore Patrol Vessels reflects the adoption of a risk based, intelligence led operational model that enables targeted enforcement interventions in the right place at the right time. The requirement for all vessels over 12 metres in length to be fitted with the satellite tracking devices (Vessel Monitoring System) gives a real time picture of where fishing activity is happening enabling the efficient employment of patrol vessels. This information is monitored at the MMO control room in Newcastle.

In addition, when the RN Offshore Patrol Vessels are at sea but conducting other tasks they are still able to provide a presence which has a deterrent effect. This is supplemented by joint working with other agencies such as Inshore Fisheries Conservation Authorities (IFCAs), UK Border Force (UKBF) and the Police to ensure effective and timely intervention where illegal activity is suspected. Radar sweeps can be used by patrol vessels to identify potential targets and the AIS (Automatic Identification System) is also used in fisheries enforcement to detect fishing activity, including where fishing vessels are operating.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

HL463

Session

2017-19

Subjects

Fisheries Protection Navy

Contains statistics

Yes

Link

View this Written question on www.parliament.uk