Explanatory Note

(This note is not part of the Order)

Article 3 of this Order prohibits the fishing for tope by any method other than by rod and line. The retention on board of tope up to a maximum liveweight of 45 kilogrammes per day is permitted.

Article 4 prohibits the trans-shipment of tope.

Article 5 prohibits the landing in Wales of tope caught by rod and line or beheaded tope.

Article 6 sets out the powers of British sea-fishery officers in respect of this Order, in addition to their powers under the Sea Fish (Conservation) Act 1967. Criminal sanctions are prescribed by sections 5(1), 5(7), 6(5), 6(5A) and 11 of that Act.

A full regulatory impact assessment of the effect that this instrument will have is available from the Fisheries Policy Branch, Welsh Assembly Government, 1st Floor, Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF10 3NQ.