Mike Treleaven welcomes Andrew George M.P. to Brixham

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 24th Feb 2003

Mike Treleaven the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesperson for the Totnes Constituency was delighted to welcome Andrew George M.P., the Liberal Democrat spokesperson on fishing, to Brixham last Friday where they met Neil Downes the Chief Fisheries Officer for Devon, Rick Smith the Chairman of the Brixham Trawler Agents and Jim Portus, Chief Executive of the South Western Fish Producers Organisation.

The visit enabled Mr. Treleaven and Mr. George to discuss the many issues facing Brixham's fishermen today including the effects of alterations to the Common Fisheries Policy .

Commenting on the visit Mike Treleaven said 'Fishing is a vital part of Brixham life contributing a great deal to the local economy and it is obvious that the European Fisheries policy is not working. We need much more involvement of local people in decision making and I hope that the new Regional Advisory Councils will become active and effective as quickly as possible. We need a sustainable fishing industry that provides a good livelihood for the fishermen without ruining fish stocks. Recently people have become much more adventurous in their choice of fish to eat and trying out new varieties is an excellent way of helping traditional fish stocks to recover. He continued ' Andrew George is a much respected spokesperson on fishing matters who has spoken up for the fishing industry in Parliament for many years. The opportunity to talk to leaders of the industry and discuss their problems first hand was very welcome and helped to ensure that we keep up to date on the relevant issues.'

During the discussions Mr. Portus revealed interesting figures on the economic benefits of fishing to the region. The fishing industry in the South West is worth £165million and accounts for nearly 4000 jobs directly and indirectly. In Brixham fishing is responsible for 10% of the GDP ( Gross Domestic Product) of the area.