MEPs are calling for sanctions against countries that allow over fishing of mackerel at a crucial debate in Strasbourg.
Scots trawlermen who were left angry after Iceland and the Faroe Islands greatly increased their quotas believe the European Commission (EC) should be given more powers to act.
Anger spilled over two years ago when Scots fishermen blocked a Faroese boat from landing mackerel at Peterhead harbour. Since then industry leaders have been calling for sanctions against the Faroe Islands and Iceland after various negotiations failed to reach an agreement.
The two nations, who are not part of the European Union (EU), have awarded themselves steep rises in quotas, a move Scots trawlermen say threatens the stocks.
On Tuesday a report was debated in Strasbourg aiming to strenghthen the EC's powers to impose sanctions.
Mackerel is Scotland's most lucrative fish stock, equating to a third of the value of all landings.
Sanctions against the Faroes and Icleand could include barring their vessels from EU ports and banning cod imports.
The European Parliament will vote on Wednesday on whether the EC should be given extra powers to act, although its hoped the threat of sanctions will be enough to force a change of heart.
