EU easing of fishing quotas raises scientists fears dwindling stocks

Ministers accused of ignoring scientists' recommendations as UK fleets allowed to catch more cod, haddock and sole

British fishing fleets will be allowed to catch greater quantities of cod, haddock and sole next year, after Europe's ministers approved a new fishing quota that will cheer fish and chip shops but has alarmed scientists concerned over dwindling stocks.

The European Union's fisheries council reached an agreement in the early hours of Wednesday morning, in what may be one of the last such quota divisions in which the UK takes part if supporters of a hard Brexit have their way.