Margaret MarshallDear Margaret,
When I came to Berwick and East Lothian last month, I met with a number of local fishermen. I remember what they told me of their present difficulties and particularly of their worries about the future of the fishing industry.
I thought, therefore, that you would like to have a statement from me setting out Conservative Policy on Fishing and our attitude towards the Brussels negotiations. I know that the local people are not directly affected by all the points but they will nevertheless like to know what we have in mind.
Please give them my personal assurance that they will not find us wanting. Yours sincerely, Margaret Thatcher. [end p1]
Statement by the Rt. Hon. Mrs Margaret Thatcher M.P., on Conservative Fishing Policy:
Let there be no doubt about the Conservative Party's determination to support to the full the interests of British Fishermen. At stake are the livelihoods of thousands of people, both at sea and ashore, as well as a vital national food reserve. Fishermen will not find the Conservative Party wanting.
The Fisheries issue will be given top priority in our negotiations in Europe when we return to office.
Common Market proposals fall a long way short of what we require, and the Government have been right to regard them as totally unacceptable. But Labour's obstructive attitude to Europe on many other matters has meant that our partners are inclined to be less co-operative on issues vital to British interests, such as fishing.
Our policy is quite clear. John Peyton has said on many occasions that any fisheries settlement must satisfy five basic requirements:—
First, it must reflect the fact that more than half of the available stock to the Community ‘Pond’ comes from British waters.
Second, it must take account of the fact that the international move to 200 mile limits has deprived our fishermen of access to many of their traditional fishing grounds.
Third, not only should the total allowable catch be limited in the interest of conservation, but there must be clear and practical rules to control the amount of fishing and the methods used.
Fourth, coastal states should have sole responsibility for control over their waters since they alone have the knowledge, capability and will to enforce the rule.
Fifth, the rights of inshore fishermen must be safeguarded. [end p2]
Time, however, is not on Britain's side. Whilst negotiations drag on in Brussels, over-fishing continues. If we cannot obtain early agreement from our European partners, it will be necessary to bring in further conservation methods, hopefully in unison with Brussels but, if necessary, unilaterally.
A viable and healthy fishing industry is vital to the interests of the whole nation, and will be safeguarded by the next Conservative Government.