Britain's individual contribution to world cuisine, fish and chips, is not under threat from the recently introduced strict fishing quotas set by the EU on the 15th December 2000, states the Frozen At Sea Fillets Association (FASFA).

Speaking about the effect of the strict quotas, Tim Cartwright-Taylor spokesperson and secretary for FASFA said: "It is a myth that falling stocks in the North Sea and strict quotas will mean the end of the great British tradition, Fish 'n' Chips. The fact is, less than 1/5th of cod landed in Britain is from the North Sea, to which these quotas apply. The bulk of cod eaten in Britain is from the Barents Sea - Spitzbergen, waters around the coast of Norway, or from the seas around Iceland. These areas are well-managed waters with considerable stocks."

Tim continued: "Our Association, made up of both importers and filleter vessel owners, lands cod that has been frozen at sea within 4 hours of being caught for the highest possible quality, which is used primarily by fish and chip shops."

"Cod stocks in the North Sea are declining and regulation is necessary to protect and regenerate stocks, but consumers do not need to feel guilty about eating Cod 'n' Chips. The well-managed waters from where frozen at sea fillets are caught will continue to provide for the fish and chip industry today - and for the future."

For further editorial information, contact:
Paul Moss/J Stedman at Oakbase PR, Oakbase plc,
Oakbase House, Trafford Street, Chester CH1 1HP
Tel: 01244 391391 Fax: 01244 379237

FASFA
Tel: 01482 324024  Fax: 01482 323737