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Distant Fleet Fishing: Kirkella Trawler
27 May 2021
Lead MP
Emma Hardy
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
BrexitAgriculture & Rural Affairs
Other Contributors: 2
At a Glance
Emma Hardy raised concerns about distant fleet fishing: kirkella trawler in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The UK fishing industry was promised great benefits post-Brexit but has instead faced challenges, with fishermen out of work due to competition from foreign fleets and lack of deals for distant water fishing opportunities. The Kirkella, a Hull-based ice-class trawler, is at risk as the government failed to secure agreements with Norway and Greenland, impacting jobs in Hull and elsewhere. Emma Hardy highlights the human cost, mentioning Charles Waddy who faces an uncertain future. She calls for immediate action from the Minister of State to negotiate deals, emphasising that without them, the UK fishing industry will suffer further.
Nigel Evans
Con
Carlisle
Karl Turner has sought and received permission to contribute.
Karl Turner
Lab
Kingston upon Hull East
Praises Emma Hardy for securing the debate, mentions Big Lil Bilocca's historical contributions to fishing safety and terms, expresses disappointment with government's handling of negotiations and urges immediate action.
Government Response
Acknowledges difficulties faced by the Kirkella and UK fisheries. Explains imbalanced nature of previous agreements when part of EU, sets out background to recent negotiations with Norway which have been challenging due to historical imbalances. Indicates willingness for future discussions but emphasises fairness is key in any negotiation. Mentions ongoing access for Kirkella to fish 5,500 tonnes of cod off Svalbard worth around £12.6 million. Announces £100 million investment for transformative seafood projects across the UK to rejuvenate industry and coastal communities through training, infrastructure, and science development. Acknowledges regional significance of seafood processing in Grimsby with substantial economic contributions but disputes figures on Kirkella crew employment. Highlights positive retail sales growth and resilience shown by sector during pandemic.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.