THE region's fishermen last night accused the European Commission of stage-managing a disagreement over cuts in catch quotas so it can force an emergency ban and the subsequent ruin of the British fishing industry.

Whitby fisherman Richard Brewer, who is director of the Anglo-Scottish Fish Producers' Association, said: "It is a foregone conclusion. The European Commission do not want an agreement. Then, they can impose any measures they wish and they'll force our closure."

He was reacting to a statement by UK Fisheries Minister Elliot Morley that an emergency North Sea fishing ban from January 1 could not be ruled out if EU ministers fail to agree on cuts in catch quotas for stocks of cod, haddock and whiting.

Mr Morley said talks next week in Brussels promised to be "the most difficult I have ever experienced" as pressure grows from the EU Commission and scientists for drastic reductions in fish catches.

Mr Morley underlined the importance of the EU Council of Ministers reaching agreement, if emergency action from the Commission was to be avoided.

He said an emergency ban cannot be ruled out. "It is a real prospect," he said. "I think one or two sections of the fishing industry think the Commission are bluffing."

The row over fishing quotas has been sparked by tough warnings from scientists that white fish stocks are dangerously low and need time to recover, if the industry is to have a sustainable future.

The EU Commission originally proposed a complete halt to fishing in the North Sea, but has now said an 80 per cent cut in fishing would be acceptable.