FISHING leaders have called on Alex Salmond to clarify a speech in which he appeared to suggest an independent Scotland could ban EU vessels from sailing through its waters to Norwegian fishing grounds.

In a speech in Bruges last month the First Minister said foreign boats would be denied access to Scottish waters "and as a consequence their access to Norwegian waters" if an independent Scotland failed to negotiate swift EU membership on favourable terms.

In a letter sent yesterday, the Scottish Fishermen's Federation asked the First Minister to explain the statement, saying contrary to international laws of the sea.

The request was among a list of questions about the possible impact of independence on the fishing industry.

Chief executive Bertie Armstrong said the SFF was neutral on the question of independence and stressed he had been asked to "seek clarity over issues" on behalf of members. In the past, fishing leaders have voiced fears the industry might be used as a bargaining chip in EU accession talks, in the event of independence.

Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead said: "It is a simple fact that if Scotland were not in the EU, it would have severe knock-on consequences for other nations as the intricate arrangements that are in place for international fisheries management would unravel - which is just one of many good reasons why Scotland will be welcomed in the EU as an independent member."

He insisted the fishing industry "only stands to gain from independence" and ruled out using Scotland's fleet in possible EU talks.