Fishing Industry Tariffs 2020-11-26
2020-11-26
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Joanna C incident highlights the dangers faced by fishermen. Non-tariff barriers and delays at borders are concerns for seafood delivery times.
What discussions has the Minister had with representatives from (a) fishing communities and (b) the fish processing sector on the potential effect of post-transition period tariffs? I associate my group with the Minister's comments, but non-tariff barriers also worry fishermen. This week's test run for border procedures showed chaos could disrupt seafood deliveries.
The Government have offered zero tariffs on all goods, including fish. We hold regular discussions with both sectors. About 1,000 officers are available for export health certificates, but Scotland may need additional environmental health officers to avoid capacity gaps.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific assurances against delays ruining produce or businesses
Work With The Fishing Industry And Local Authorities
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Sheep sector faces possible 48% tariffs, causing concerns among Scottish farmers about their business models. The National Sheep Association Scotland seeks a compensation scheme.
Tariffs of up to 48% are a huge concern for the sheep sector and would ruin many businesses. What assurances can be given regarding a compensation scheme?
I never suggested that specialist sheep farmers should switch to beef production; I mentioned mixed enterprises might adjust based on market signals. There is no mention of a specific compensation scheme.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address the question about compensation details, instead clarified previous statements
Clarified Previous Comments
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Sheep sector faces up to 48% tariffs, potentially ruining business models. Farmers seek assurances of a compensation scheme.
Tariffs on lamb could ruin businesses and damage the reputation of Scotch lamb. The National Sheep Association Scotland has called for a compensation scheme. What details can be provided today?
I always advise people to look at what I actually said rather than Twitter attacks on my words. I did not suggest switching from sheep to beef, but mixed enterprises might adjust based on market signals.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address the compensation scheme or provide details
Criticised Misinterpretation Of His Comments
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The Scottish Seafood Association has joined other food leaders in a letter to the Prime Minister, warning of £3 billion losses from COVID-19. They seek financial support due to potential tariffs.
Tariffs mean enormous damage to our industry, on top of estimated £3 billion covid losses. When will the Minister reveal details of the financial support that is desperately needed?
Tariffs are typically lower for fish, particularly exports. The EU faces higher prices if tariffs apply; zero tariffs were offered to the EU. Fishermen can generally afford tariffs if needed.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide any details about financial support or reveal when it will be announced
Discussed Tariff Levels But Avoided Specifics On Support
Response accuracy