Scottish fishermen will be consulted as the new Fisheries Bill is developed ahead of Brexit, Environment Secretary Michael Gove pledged ahead of his first visit to Peterhead, Aberdeenshire.
While visiting Peterhead’s harbour and fish market, the Secretary of State will be meeting skippers and industry representatives from the whitefish, shellfish and pelagic sectors.
Mr Gove said: “The UK is a proud fishing nation and this industry is crucial for many coastal communities around the Scottish coast and Northern Isles.
“That is why I made sure one of my first visits as Environment Secretary was to Peterhead, famous for its fishing heritage, to hear directly from fishermen about what their real priorities are in the upcoming negotiations.
“As we negotiate our exit from the European Union, I am determined to secure the best possible deal, making sure we have a sustainable and profitable industry for today’s fishermen and the next generation.”
The Fisheries Bill, announced in the Queen’s Speech following the general election, will review legislation for the UK’s fishing industry before it becomes fully responsible for access and management of its waters and quota setting.
The Secretary of State will also be meeting Bertie Armstrong, chief executive of the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation, to discuss the future of fishing for Scotland once the UK has left the EU, upcoming negotiations and what the Fisheries Bill could mean for fishing in Scotland.
Mr Armstrong said: “We are delighted with the commitment made to taking back the beneficial control and management of our rich and sustainable seafood resources.”
The government is expected to work with the fishing industry and marine scientists, as well as the devolved administrations, to preserve and increase fish stocks for their long-term sustainability, and secure prosperity for fishermen across the UK in the coming months.
