Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Seasonal Scampi Fishers 2026-07-08

Wednesday 8 July 2026 · 3 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Alison Hume asked the Minister about introducing bespoke fishing visas for seasonal scampi fishers in Northern Ireland to protect jobs at Whitby Seafoods.
  • Alison Hume urged the Minister to redouble efforts with colleagues to find a solution and protect jobs affected by new visa rules.
  • Jim Shannon asked the Minister to support a proposal for bespoke seasonal visas to help the historic fleet fish around Northern Ireland's coast, addressing issues with restricted skilled worker visas.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Alison Hume Lab
Immigration Agriculture & Rural Affairs
Context

The MP is concerned about the impact of new visa rules on the scampi industry, particularly noting that 70% of crews operating out of Kilkeel are foreign workers who will no longer qualify under the new rules.

Question

What discussions has he had with the Secretary of State for the Home Department on introducing bespoke fishing visas for seasonal scampi fishers in Northern Ireland? The issue affects jobs at Whitby Seafoods, a major supplier. About 70% of crews catching scampi are foreign workers who will no longer qualify under new visa rules from year-end. Will he redouble efforts to work with colleagues to secure a solution and protect those jobs?

Answer from Matthew Patrick

We have written to the Home Secretary about these issues. It is our duty to work with businesses across the UK to ensure they are ready for immigration changes. We want our fishing industry to thrive, and people here to benefit from good jobs.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific efforts or bespoke visas not addressed

How: Efforts To Work With Businesses, Ready For Changes

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q2 Alison Hume Lab
Immigration Employment Northern Ireland
Context

The MP notes the severe financial impact of restricted skilled worker visas on jobs at Whitby Seafoods, a major supplier of scampi.

Question

Jobs at Whitby Seafoods remain at risk due to new visa rules affecting 70% of Kilkeel crews. A small number of bespoke seasonal visas could save the scampi industry. Will he redouble efforts with colleagues for a solution and protect jobs in Northern Ireland and Whitby?

Answer from Matthew Patrick

We have written to the Home Secretary about these issues, and I am sure that my hon. Friend will be making her case very powerfully as well. We want our fishing industry to thrive, and we want people here to benefit from those good jobs.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific efforts or bespoke visas not addressed

How: Making The Case Powerfully, Ready For Changes

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q3 Jim Shannon DUP Strangford
Immigration Northern Ireland
Context

The MP is concerned about the severe financial impact of visa restrictions, fuel costs, and Isle of Man transit barriers on family-owned trawlers in Portavogie, Ardglass, and Kilkeel.

Question

Due to restricted skilled worker visas, family-owned trawlers face a perfect storm alongside fuel costs and new Isle of Man transit barriers. There is a proposal for bespoke seasonal visas that could ensure the historic fleet can fish around Northern Ireland's coast. Will the Minister support it to secure the sector's future?

Answer from Matthew Patrick

We totally support our fishing sector. If the Immigration Minister is speaking with the hon. Gentleman and my hon. Friend, I will try to be part of those meetings.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific efforts or bespoke visas not addressed

How: Supporting The Fishing Sector, Participating In Meetings

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)