Alan Brown discussed the Scottish fishery industry's concerns, focusing on the negative impact of Brexit on fishing communities. He called for immediate action by the government to address these issues.

The hon. Member for Strangford is congratulated on securing this debate, and the issue of crew from outside the EEA who struggle to meet language competence requirements is highlighted. Carmichael criticised the government's lack of strategy on fisheries policy post-Brexit, highlighting issues such as in-year quota swaps and compensation for exporters. He mentioned a specific exporter who lost £30,000 due to compensation rules that did not account for business mitigation measures. The Liberal Democrat MP briefly interjected with a single word 'Cod end'. Asked the Minister for a statement on the progress made since her visit to Norway, particularly regarding any deals that could benefit the UK's distant water fleet based out of Hull. Before we look forward to the pathway still to come, can we look at the administration of the compensation scheme, particularly in relation to my constituent, who is £30,000 out? Will the Minister meet me to discuss his case?

The hon. Gentleman is asked about the Specialised Committee on Fisheries as a possible conduit for solutions to fisheries issues. Expressed gratitude towards Luke Pollard for his work on fishing and welcomed the annual debate on fisheries. Mentioned plans to set up an independent lifeboat association and an APPG on aquaculture focusing on live bivalve molluscs. Highlighted that 25% of existing EU quota will transfer to the UK over five and a half years with £333 million uplift, including specific percentages for fish stocks. Raised concerns about foreign vessels operating within six to 12-mile limits and requested DEFRA's intentions after the transition period. Called for clarity on supertrawlers post-June 2026. Asked when pillar 2 and 3 of the levelling-up fund would be available, emphasising their importance for fleet expansion and training. Noted the secrecy around meetings of the Specialised Committee on Fisheries and requested clear dates for future meetings. Mr. Mangnall apologised for interrupting, advising the hon. Gentleman not to judge the fishing industry's success solely based on negative headlines. He invited him to visit Brixham to see a success story of the fishing industry and questioned why more weight was given to the NFFO report over the MMO report that indicated a £143 million uplift from the TCA.

The protocol has negatively impacted the fishing industry in Northern Ireland, with restrictions on east-west seafood trade and non-designation of landing ports. The DUP MP highlighted historical discrimination by the EU common fisheries policy towards UK fishermen and criticized the current protocol for prioritizing Irish interests over those of Northern Ireland. Will the Minister give way?

Mr. Zeichner expressed concern over the current state of UK-EU fisheries negotiations and highlighted the challenges faced by fishermen due to complex regulations, citing examples from press reports such as French fishermen shutting ports and threatening blockades. He quoted a report stating that the UK fishing industry was 'shocked' at the extent of its concessions made during Brexit negotiations, including access to fish in UK waters for six years, which he described as a significant setback. Mr. Zeichner also mentioned discrepancies between government figures of £148 million benefit and the NFFO's suggested loss of £300 million.

Commemorated and saluted the dangers of fishing as a peacetime occupation, thanking RNLI volunteer crews and organizations like Fishermen's Mission for their support. Highlighted innovative safety measures in fishing vessels. Criticized the Government's handling of the TCA, requesting transparency on French vessel licences and their impact on Scottish fishermen.

The hon. Friend alludes to the problems that would arise from a rigid implementation of the protocol and agrees that there should be a specific, bespoke problem-solving process between the EU and UK Governments.

John Grogan spoke about the importance of supporting fishermen through challenging times. He highlighted the need for flexibility in quotas and called for a review of the seasonal pattern of fish catches to ensure fair distribution.

Mr. Pollard discussed the importance of fishing for Plymouth, highlighting nearly 1,000 jobs dependent on the industry and praising safety improvements like the RNLI's lifejacket scheme. He expressed concern over the impact of a botched Brexit deal on fishers and exporters, citing losses of £64 million annually from the UK fishing industry. Mr. Pollard also raised issues with live bivalve molluscs and French disputes affecting fishing activity, calling for clarity and support from the government.

A key concern of the fishing industry is that the Government have not been clear about the benefits gained and losses made by leaving the EU. The hon. Member agrees that the Government must prioritise transparency and engagement with the industry. Labour shortages have put pressure on seafood processing businesses. The hon. Member agrees that this part of the industry must not be overlooked or forgotten when it comes to Government support packages.

Nick Thomas-Symonds raised concerns about the impact of Brexit on Welsh fishermen, mentioning issues with fishing quotas and access rights. He emphasized the need for dialogue between the UK and EU to reach a fair agreement.

Mr Aldous highlighted challenges in managing UK fisheries post-Brexit, particularly around herring stocks and the need for sustainable management. He expressed concerns over Dutch boats fishing without restrictions while local vessels face strict regulation enforcement. He also raised issues about increased sole and plaice quotas despite non-existent stocks and lack of enforcement on total allowable catches for non-quota species.

The movement of fish, particularly prawns and scampi, from Scotland to Northern Ireland is a complication due to the protocol. The hon. Member agrees that this problem needs sorting out as it affects processing in places like Whitby. Responded to Carla Lockhart's speech, questioning the DUP's policy on Scottish independence and rejoining the EU for fishing rights. Mr. Goodwill expressed disappointment at the delay in becoming an independent coastal state but highlighted the importance of continued access to European markets for many fish exporters, particularly shellfish fishermen off the Yorkshire coast. Does the Minister agree that the Whitby Lobster Hatchery will be just the sort of scheme that this might fit?