To inform Members on a revision of Byelaw 20, which is necessary in order to harmonise the byelaw with the Scallop Fishing (Wales) Order 2005. The proposed Byelaw (Annex B) allows for this harmonisation, whilst retaining, unchanged, the current fishing restriction.

1.1 The current Byelaw 20 (Annex A) was made in 1989 when the District only extended to the 3 mile fishery limit. It prohibits:

b) the removal of King Scallop measuring less than 110mm.

1.2 The Scallop Order (Wales) 2005 now harmonises fishing restrictions with those applicable to English waters. Under the Order the prohibited fishing period commences on the 1^st June. A byelaw can no longer allow fishing during the month of June, thus the requirement for the change of date to 1^st June (Annex B, paragraph (a)).

1.3 The Scallop Order (Wales) 2005 also specifies a minimum landing size (MLS) of 110mm. It is therefore unnecessary to specify a MLS in the Byelaw.

1.4 The proposed Byelaw 20 (Annex B) therefore invokes these changes whilst retaining unchanged the extended prohibited period of November and December applicable within the 3 mile fishery limit in the area to the south of Braich y Pwyll.

1.5 The proposed Byelaw 20 has been submitted to DEFRA and WAG for legal scrutiny.