Opposition to the plan came from Spain, Malta, Italy, France, Greece and Cyprus. The Mediterranean countries have been accused of protecting their own large fishing interests over those of a species.

Xavier Pastor, executive director of Oceana Europe, said "They continue to defend the interests of the tuna fishing industry with apparent disregard for the fact they are pushing tuna to the point of no return".

The final decision will be taken by EU environment ministers by the end of the year.