On Air Early Breakfast Chris Williams | 5:00am - 7:30am

Boot denies 'climb down' over scallops

DEFA minister Geoffrey Boot

Measure delayed pending talks with Scottish officials

The Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture has denied 'backing down' on the introduction of new king scallop fishing requirements.

DEFA asks vessels to call at an Island port so catch numbers can be assessed - however, the measure will be held back a week, after concerns were raised by the Scottish government.

Geoffrey Boot says it'll give both parties time to explore an alternative, but ultimately, urgent action is needed to protect stocks.

He'll be speaking to his Scottish counterpart in more detail later this week after discussions.

Mr Boot denied suggestions DEFA are 'back-pedaling' on the issue: 

More from Isle of Man News