NET LOSSES ARE UNACCEPTABLE
SCOTLAND’S pro-Brexit fishing leaders yesterday warned Tories to change course on quitting the EU.
The Scottish Fishermen’s Federation said the Government’s current exit plan will keep vital powers away from Holyrood.
The group’s fears chime with SNP warnings of a “power grab” that would harm devolution.
The concerns were raised in a letter to MSPs meeting tomorrow on the finance and constitution committee.
SFF executive officer Simon Collins warned the shift of powers from Brussels to Westminster is “particularly significant”.
He wrote that the group believe the EU Withdrawal Bill’s approach to repatriating powers from the EU “requires amendment if it is to respect the devolution settlement and deliver appropriate fisheries management”.
Holyrood would be unable to change the unpopular Common Fisheries Policy, which is used to set catch quotas, he said.
Scottish ministers would need to seek the agreement of the UK Parliament to amend legislation regulating fisheries, Collins added, “dramatically limiting Scotland’s ability to carry out its devolved responsibilities”.
If the UK Government have to press ahead with their plans to ensure a smoother transfer, the SFF insisted the policy should “expire on day two”.
The federation, who believe Brexit is a “sea of opportunity”, represent about 500 vessels.
Expected prizes include new markets for seafood in rapidly expanding economies, and the ability to better divert funds.
The concern was raised as Scottish and UK Brexit ministers prepare to meet parliamentary