Scottish Fishing Businesses 2021-03-04
2021-03-04
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from ongoing difficulties faced by UK fisheries post-Brexit, particularly in securing tariff-free access and dealing with compensation funds. There are concerns about the sustainability of smaller companies trading with Europe.
What assessment has been made of the effect of the UK-EU trade and co-operation agreement on Scottish fishing businesses? Difficulties with the UK-EU fishing trade were described as 'teething problems' but these issues persist, affecting the East Neuk in North East Fife. The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee reported potential demise for smaller companies trading in Europe.
Yes, I believe so. The UK has secured tariff-free access and a 25% quota uplift under the trade agreement, providing regulatory freedom. Lorry loads of fish typically clear border control posts in France within an hour, with volumes back up to around 85% of normal levels.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about agreeing that leaving EU was overwhelming for fishing industry was not directly addressed; the answer focused on current improvements and statistics without reiterating original stance.
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
There are persistent difficulties with UK-EU fishing trade despite initial assurances. Compensation funds for affected businesses have been deemed insufficient, leading to concerns over the future of smaller companies trading in Europe.
Does the Secretary of State still agree with his 2016 statement that leaving EU is overwhelming positive for fishing industry? Two months after calling issues 'teething problems', these are ongoing. Environment Committee was told medium-term sees more small firms ceasing trade in Europe, potentially leading to their demise.
Yes, I believe so. The UK has secured tariff-free access and a substantial quota transfer under the trade agreement, giving regulatory freedom previously not available.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about agreeing with 2016 statement was partially addressed but did not fully acknowledge or defend past stance. Emphasis on current improvements without addressing historical claims directly.
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The Prime Minister suggested eating more British fish could save the industry, while other officials described difficulties as 'teething problems' or said fish are 'happier'. However, Scottish businesses face long delays at EU borders. Taskforces and regulatory measures are seen as insufficient.
Can flippancy end now? Get serious answers for fishing industry. Some firms still face three-day waits to export fresh fish. Does the Government accept mistakes were made? Will they negotiate with EU to align regulations necessary to save the industry?
Volumes of fish exports are at about 85% of normal levels, considering market stress due to coronavirus. About half clear border posts within an hour; over 90% clear in three hours. Government does not recognize the figure given by the hon. Lady.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about admitting mistakes and returning to negotiations was not addressed, focusing instead on current export volumes and border clearance times.
Under Review
Response accuracy