[SurfnSpear]

Sent in an email using some of yours James...all feel free to use template.

To whom it may concern,

It has been brought to my attention that there is a proposed change to the Technical Conservation Regulations as part of a current consultation. The change is part of Article 12 of the Technical Conservation review document:
I wish to oppose and point out that the adoption of the legislation as it stands would ban a legitimate, selective and environmentally friendly form of fishing enjoyed by several thousand people in the UK. I would like to object most strongly to the inclusion of spearfishing per se (reference Article 12 ‘any kind of projectile’) as part of this proposed ban.

Spearfishing is the only form of fishing which is entirely selective in the capture of fish. It has a negligible impact on fish stocks, zero by-catch or effect on the local environment. Spearfishermen only take fish for their own consumption, and there is no logic in removing the current right to legitimitely and legally catch fish by means of a projected spear while observing species selection and minimum sizes.

Article 12
Destructive fishing practices

The catching, retention on board, transhipment, storage, landing, sale, display or offer for sale of marine organisms caught using methods incorporating the use of explosives, poisonous or stupefying substances, electric current or any kind of projectile shall be prohibited.


This is a significant change from the current legislation which is Article 31 of Council Regulation 850/98 which permits spearfishing but prohibits the sale of fish caught using a projectile

THE CURRENT LEGISLATION/LAW below
Article 31
Unconventional fishing methods

1. The catching of marine organisms using methods incorporation the use of explosives, poisonous or stupefying substances or electric current shall be prohibited.

2.The sale, display or offer for sale of marine organisms caught using methods incorporating the use of any kind of projectile shall be prohibited.

Your's sincerely,