The North Sea Cod species levels have dropped below biological safety levels resulting in a suspension put in place by The Marine Stewardship Council following the decline in stocks.

The suspension affects all MSC-certified fisheries targeting the North Sea cod stock. It follows the recording of a drastic fall in spawning stock biomass by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) in June, which recommended a 63% reduction in the fisheries' total allowable catch after stocks fell from 167,711 tonnes in 2017 to 136,231 this year.

The decrease in stocks is suggested to be a result of climate change causing warmth in the temperature in the North Sea waters leading to the young cod dying off before reaching adulthood. The results will have a worrying effect on the industry, impacting the inflation of cod prices and trade, and having a knock-on effect on the beloved British fish and chips.

Reversible measures are being discussed and will come into force with immediate effect, overseeing the monitoring of fishing boats on board to try and reduce the impact of the current situation.

A Scottish government spokeswoman said: "The loss of accreditation for this iconic stock is very disappointing. We are working with the industry and with other fishing nations to establish the multi-national response needed to ensure sustainable fishing while maintaining economic fleet viability."

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