The Fraga report, which I understand was drafted at least partially by Spanish personnel from the Commission, is a bad report. Bad because it reflects totally and exclusively a Spanish viewpoint of professional and socio-professional interests and takes no account whatsoever of the legitimate arguments of fishermen from every other Member State directly concerned by this question and not least the fishermen in my constituency of Munster.

It is a bad report because it uses existing resolutions in a highly selective and dishonest way. It picks the bits it likes and pretends not to notice the bits it does not like.

It maintains that tuna stocks are under threat, knowing perfectly well that this is not the case. While admitting that further serious studies need to be done before any final decision is taken on driftnets, they want them banned immediately. This can only suggest that those who favour the ban are afraid that serious technical and scientific studies would prove them wrong.

I find it intolerable that this whole situation has been brought about by Spanish bullyboy tactics. The Fraga report for me is nothing more than the continuation of these tactics.

I shall be voting against this report.