Coastal communities like Mevagissey and Newquay will benefit from a new historic fisheries agreement signed with Norway last week – the UK’s first since leaving the EU and first as an independent coastal state in 40 years.
Conservative MP for St Austell and Newquay Steve Double backed the deal and said it highlighted the Government’s commitment to future cooperation in securing a responsible management of our seas and was evidence of how the Conservatives are delivering for coastal communities.
The Fisheries Framework Agreement signed by Environment Secretary George Eustice and Norwegian Fisheries Minister Odd Emil Ingebrigtsen means that the UK and Norway will hold annual negotiations on the issues of access to waters and quotas.
It is a significant step forward as the UK prepares to leave the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy at the end of the transition period in December. Leaving the EU means the UK is able to decide who can access its waters and on what terms, in the best interest of its marine environment and its seafood and fishing sectors.
The news comes as the Fisheries Bill, which confirms the government’s commitment to sustainable fishing for future generations, makes its way through the House of Commons.
Commenting, Steve said:
“These are unprecedented times for our fishing fleets. Brexit gives us so many opportunities as an independent coastal state and first and foremost is making sure we get a good deal for our fishing communities.”
“This agreement with Norway is a great example of what we can achieve. I continue to hold the interests of fishermen in coastal communities like Newquay and Mevagissey to heart and will do all I can to ensure we get the best deal with the EU for them and future generations of Cornish fishermen.”