Brussels, 11/05/2001 (Agence Europe) - During a meeting, on Thursday, with Norwegian Fisheries Minister Otto Gregussen, Commissioner Franz Fischler stressed the urgent need for all parties concerned by blue whiting fishing - including Norway - to agree on a series of measures for preserving stocks. 'The continued absence of measures to curb the almost 'anarchic' blue whiting catches would run the risk of stock collapse in the short- to medium-term", Commissioner Fischler warned. He raised the question of restrictions imposed by Norway in the Svalbard area on access of EU fishing vessels to herring and shrimp fisheries. These measures are contrary to the international legislation in force. The Commission hopes progress will be made on this at his meeting with Norway, on 28 and 29 May.