Fish stocks report is published

Cod stocks have declined severely since the 1990s

A report on the status of fish stocks in the oceans around Europe is due to be published.

The International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) is expected to say there has been a slight recovery in cod stocks in some areas.

But the scientists are continuing to advise that stock catches should be constrained in years to come.

The council coordinates and promotes marine research in the north Atlantic.

Each year, ICES publishes its advice on commercial fish stocks in advance of the EU meeting in December where fish quotas for European countries are determined.

Stop fishing

North Sea cod stocks have declined severely since the late 1990s, and in the past the scientific advice has been to stop fishing for cod entirely.

Researchers say where fisheries have been closed, there are signs of a slight recovery.

But, they say, it is not yet enough, and these young fish need the opportunity to grow and reproduce so they can contribute to the restoration of this important fish stock.

Scottish fishermen's leaders say the report contains '"much encouraging news" for the industry.

Martin Pastoors, chairman of ICES' fishery management advisory committee, said: "Our scientific surveys show that the number of young fish has increased, although to only half of the long-term average.

"It is not enough. We recommend constraining catches in 2008 to less than 50% of the 2006 catches."