← Back to Westminster Hall Debates

Future of Fishing — [Clive Efford in the Chair]

05 November 2024

Lead MP

Rupert Lowe
Great Yarmouth
Ind

Responding Minister

Daniel Zeichner

Tags

Economy
Word Count: 11034
Other Contributors: 15

At a Glance

Rupert Lowe raised concerns about future of fishing — [clive efford in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

The Government needs a rebuilding blueprint to benefit the economy and food security post-2026. The Reform party has proposed several measures including introducing a revised Merchant Shipping Act, speeding up the return of fishing quotas, banning foreign supertrawlers from UK waters, and ensuring full British control over its exclusive economic zone.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Great Yarmouth
Opened the debate
Britain has some of the richest fishing grounds in its 200-nautical-mile limit, which historically supported a flourishing industry. However, EU membership since 1973 severely damaged British fishing and fish processing industries, with other member states free to fish outside a 12-mile coastal band. European fishing fleets have used questionable methods such as electric pulse fishing, heavily exploiting UK waters. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs' marine management has allowed EU vessels to operate unmonitored in UK waters. Currently, the French have 92% of cod quota in the channel and three times more Dover sole than Britain.

Government Response

Daniel Zeichner
Government Response
The minister highlighted the Government's efforts to reset their relationship with the EU regarding fisheries after 2026, focusing on food security, cultural identity, and economic growth. He discussed the Fisheries Act 2020 and fisheries management plans as key frameworks for future policy, addressing issues such as visa complications for foreign workers in the industry and highlighting initiatives like the UK seafood careers programme to address skills shortages. The minister also mentioned ongoing consultations on fishing opportunities and quota-sharing arrangements with international partners.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.