Have Your Say: Shaping the Future of UK-EU Fishing - Call for Evidence Launched!
The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Fisheries has just announced a crucial Call for Evidence aimed at gathering insights from the heart of the UK's fishing industry and related sectors. This initiative comes at a pivotal time, with the review of the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) on the horizon and the Adjustment Period for fisheries drawing to a close in June 2026.
For those working tirelessly in the fishing industry, from catching to processing and beyond, this is your opportunity to directly influence the future landscape of UK-EU fisheries arrangements. The APPG on Fisheries is actively seeking your priorities and experiences to better understand the needs of a sustainable and thriving UK fishing and seafood industry.
Why is this important?
Since the UK's departure from the EU, the TCA has set the rules of engagement, replacing the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). This agreement covers vital aspects such as fishing opportunities, access to waters, and trade. While a five and a half year Adjustment Period was put in place, we are now approaching a critical juncture.
The TCA brought about a gradual transfer of fishing quota from the EU to the UK. Post-2026, the existing quota shares are set to remain stable, forming the baseline for future annual negotiations – unless both sides agree to changes. When it comes to access, the agreement currently allows full access to each other's Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), with specific arrangements for the 6-12 nautical mile territorial zone for certain fish stocks. After June 2026, the level and conditions of this access will be subject to annual agreements tied to quota shares.
The implications are significant. While the UK could, in theory, exert greater control over its waters or adjust quota allocations after the Adjustment Period, the TCA includes mechanisms that allow either side to take action if operating arrangements are substantially altered. For example, limiting EU vessels' access to UK waters could lead to reciprocal measures from the EU, such as tariffs or restricted access for UK fishing in EU waters. Currently, the TCA ensures tariff-free seafood exports to the EU, albeit with considerable administrative hurdles.
It's also crucial to remember that the fisheries section of the TCA is interwoven with other critical parts of the agreement, including trade, aviation, and road transport. This interconnectedness means that any changes to the fisheries agreement could have wider repercussions. Furthermore, the coinciding expiry of the energy cooperation agreement and the end of the fisheries Adjustment Period could potentially link these crucial areas in future negotiations. Even discussions around defence have recently been connected to fisheries.
Despite the current framework, there are potential avenues for the UK to pursue a more favourable agreement for its fishing industry, particularly concerning access and the rebalancing of quota allocations. It's no secret that the UK fishing industry voiced significant concerns about the initial TCA, citing unmet government promises, lower-than-expected quota gains, and the continued access of EU vessels to UK waters.
Now, with the TCA review on the horizon, the APPG on Fisheries wants to hear directly from you – the diverse voices within the UK fishing and seafood sector. They are keen to understand your priorities for the future of UK-EU fisheries arrangements. For more detailed information on the TCA's fisheries provisions, you can refer to the APPG Briefing [Insert Link to APPG Briefing Here if Available].
Quotes from the APPG on Fisheries Co-Chairs:
"The fishing industry is part of the fabric of our coasts and islands. The future of this industry will depend on a future fisheries deal with the EU that can support a viable and prosperous fishing industry. This must be a priority for the Government. We know that it is for our European counterparts, and we know that our counterparts are clear on their industry’s priorities. With this in mind, the APPG on Fisheries are seeking views of our industry on future arrangements that can support the UK’s fishing industry in the long-term."
— APPG on Fisheries Co-Chair, Alistair Carmichael MP
"We are entering a critical time in EU negotiations. Fisheries provide livelihoods around the coast of this nation – not just at sea, but on land in processing and retail. This sector also provides, and has the potential to provide nutritious food for the nation’s population. The more information we have going into these negotiations the better served the interests of our fishing industry and wider seafood sector, in all its diversity, will be."
— APPG on Fisheries Co-Chair, Melanie Onn MP
Have Your Voice Heard: Key Questions for Respondents
The APPG on Fisheries is particularly interested in hearing from individuals and organisations across the fishing industry and wider seafood sector on the following questions:
- What sector do you work in? Please describe the nature of your operations.
- How have post-Brexit arrangements relating to fisheries changed your operations?
- What are your priorities for future fisheries arrangements between the UK and EU?
- What changes would you like to see to secure your livelihood into the future?
- Do you have any additional comments?
How to Respond:
Your valuable insights will be collated and used to develop a briefing for APPG Members, helping to shape their work in Parliament. All responses will be anonymised.
Please send your submissions to the Call for Evidence via email to: secretariat@fisheriesappg.org
The deadline for submissions is Friday 9 May, 2025.
Don't miss this crucial opportunity to contribute to the future of the UK's fishing industry. Your experiences and priorities are vital in ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for this important sector. Make your voice heard through this important Call for Evidence!
