According to the British newspaper The Guardian, a secret document shows that the former Spanish government was plotting to derail the proposed discards ban in the EU.

The document seen by The Guardian, dated 2 November, said the terms and deadlines on discards are not realistic, particularly for specific sections of the Spanish fleet. The document instead opted for a reduction in discards “with a gradual approach” that should be varied according to each region – meaning get-out clauses for large sections of the Spanish fleet, writes The Guardian.

If the incoming Spanish government were to change the position, it would mark a surprising shift in the Spanish fisheries policy. Spain has been supported by France in opposing a discards ban.

Miguel Arias Cañete, Spain’s new Minister for Agriculture, Food and Environment, will meet Fisheries Commissioner Maria Damanaki Tuesday 10 January 2012.

Read the full story in The Guardian: Spanish government urged to renounce plans to rubbish EU fishing reforms

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