THE European Commission yesterday agreed in principle on the contents of an emergency package of measures to tackle the immediate social and economic hardship, triggered by the dramatic rise in the price of oil, while also tackling the underlying structural problems of the European fleet. But the UK industry was cautious about the announcement, underlining that it was uncertain if UK ministers would back the initiative.

FOLLOWING the South West Inshore Fishermen's Association's (SWIFA) statement about his intended closure of the Lyme Bay trawler and scallop fisheries, UK fisheries minister Jonathan Shaw has agreed to meet with those he considers will be most affected economically by his decision.

SHIPPING minister, Jim Fitzpatrick today announced funding of £250,000 to help fishermen attend a programme of training this year, with the potential for further funding for two more years, subject to review.

UK fisheries minister, Jonathan Shaw has announced that Defra will fund the cost of installing electronic logbooks on English trawlers where required.

THE fuel crisis in the fishing industry has claimed some of its first victims, with the announcement that the large Cornish trawler firm W. Stevenson and Sons is to lay off up to 16 members of staff.

REPRESENTATIVES of a newly-formed action group representing fishermen, road hauliers and the farming sector will meet Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond tomorrow to press home concerns over the fuel crisis facing the sectors.