Mr Portus said at the moment, many owners are facing economic uncertainty, with some having to choose between debt repayment or crew wages at the end of some recent voyages.

Seasonal fluctuations often cause downturn at this time of year, but nothing could prepare industry for the highest ever cost of oil, now making up 50% or more of their expenses.

"To add insult to injury, the Scottish government has decided unilaterally to halt trade in fish quotas, except within their own administrative competence, for a minimum period of 12 weeks while they consult about the introduction of a Scottish quota management and licensing system.

"Fish quotas are allocated to the United Kingdom under the Common Fisheries Policy and, whilst I am no apologist for the flawed system of resource distribution, I am convinced the devolved Scots administration has significantly misjudged the impact their 'UDI' will have on the value of Scottish and other UK fisheries business.

"Any owner that is forced by the rising cost of fuel to tie-up his boat, has only the licence and associated quotas as collateral against bankruptcy. If those assets cannot be moved freely within the UK Fishing Vessel Register, as up until 1630 on May 16th they could be, then there may be a claim for unlawful restraint of trade.

"I hope the Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment has a good lawyer!"

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