The Scottish government has said it will take “enforcement action” against Irish vessels found fishing within 12 miles of Rockall from Saturday. The UK claims sovereignty over the North Atlantic outcrop but the Irish government does not recognise the claim. Irish ministers have described Scottish government comments as “unwarranted”.

However, the Scottish government said a recent increase in activity from Irish vessels around Rockall had prompted the move. A spokeswoman added: “Irish vessels, or any non-UK vessels for that matter, have never been allowed to fish in this way in the UK’s territorial sea around Rockall and, despite undertaking extensive discussions with the Irish authorities on the matter, it is disappointing that this activity continues.

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