Explanatory note

This Order regulates the use and carriage of scallop dredges and applies to Scottish and relevant British fishing boats within the Scottish zone (article 3(1)).

It prohibits the use or carriage of scallop dredges (as defined in article 2(1)) which do not conform to certain technical specifications (article 3(2)).

Article 4 sets out the powers of British sea-fishery officers to enforce this Order.

It is an offence under section 3(5) of the Sea Fish (Conservation) Act 1967 to use a fishing boat in contravention of a prohibition imposed by this Order. The penalties are fixed by section 11 of that Act. On summary conviction the penalty is a fine not exceeding £5,000. On conviction on indictment the penalty is an unlimited fine. In either case the court may also order forfeiture of any net or gear used in committing the offence. On summary conviction the court may also impose a fine not exceeding the value of the fish caught with the net or gear.