He revealed the closure during a statement to MSPs on the outcome of the December Fisheries Council.

Mr Lochhead said: "We are working closely with industry and fishermen and we greatly value their co-operation."

'Calmer waters'

He explained: "I believe that a successful scheme in Scotland will lead to it being adopted more widely across Europe."

And Mr Lochhead went on: "Turning to the year ahead, it's clear that 2008 will be a year of many challenges. Tough decisions lie ahead of us.