evidence: The UK has always claimed sovereignty over Rockall, though that claim is disputed by Ireland, Iceland and Denmark. However, the dispute has rumbled aimlessly along for years. Recently however the Scottish government has said that it will enforce exclusive fishing rights for Scottish vessels within a 12-mile radius of the tiny islet as Irish boats have intensified what it says is "illegal" fishing there. The Irish – both fishermen and Government – reject the claim, insisting that under EU law they are explicitly permitted to fish around Rockall.