The Scottish Fisherman’s Federation (SFF) has welcomed commitments by UK government ministers to leaving the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) in March 2019.
Environment Secretary Michael Gove has said in an interview that the UK should leave the CFP in March 2019, when Brexit will begin, and not at the end of any transition period, while Home Secretary Amber Rudd suggested fisherman could get a better deal outside of the CFP.
SFF chief executive Bertie Armstrong said: “Becoming a coastal state on day one in order that we can negotiate the best deal could make a real economic difference to our coastal communities.
“So we welcome these acknowledgements from within the UK government of the logic and practical sense of the position that we have been arguing and fighting for.
“There is the realisation of the sea of opportunity that exists from exiting the CFP – but it can only work if we get out on day one. There is no other way.”
More control
In the interview with The Sunday Times, Mr Gove said: “The prime minister is crystal clear; the moment we leave, we become an independent coastal state. I and my colleagues are clear; we will have continuing good relations with our European partners, but we will decide access and quotas.”
Mr Gove also welcomed the SFF’S proposal of a nine-month “bridge” from March-December 2019 to fit in with international fisheries negotiations.
Meanwhile Ms Rudd told the BBC’s The Andrew Marr Show: “In my constituency in Hastings, we hate the Common Fisheries Policy. It has not been good for the communities. We would like to make sure that the fishermen, all through our coastal communities, get a better deal.”
