March 20, 2017 — UK-based environmental charity the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) has downgraded three haddock fisheries on its “Good Fish Guide”, citing “a change in scientific advice”.
Two North Sea haddock fisheries are now rated 4 (amber), and the other has dropped from being a good choice (rated 2) to one to eat only occasionally (rated 3). This means all three drop off the MCS’ recommended green list of fish to eat.
“These ratings changes have come about because scientfic perception of the stock has changed. Compared to 2015, the stock numbers in 2016 were below the recommended level and at the point where action is now needed to increase the number of fish of breeding age,” said Bernadette Clarke, Good Fish Guide manager.
However, Scottish fishermen’s representatives told the Guardian the move as “dressing advocacy up as science”.