Davidson and Gove fish for better deal
RUTH Davidson and Michael Gove have teamed up to call for the UK to leave the Common Fisheries Policy when Britain leaves the European Union.
The Scottish Conservative leader and UK Environment Secretary say it is “vital” that the country regains control over its own fisheries management after it has left in March 2019. The call comes as Scots fishermen said they want the UK to operate as “a fully functioning coastal state” from day one.
The politicians’ joint statement said: “We believe it is vital that we regain control over our own fisheries management.
“We want to use the opportunity of Brexit to secure a sustainable marine environment for the next generation.
“We agree we must deliver a fairer allocation for the British fleet in our own waters.
“As we leave the EU, we want the UK to become an independent coastal state, negotiating access annually with our neighbours.”
The SNP have said the UK Government are preparing for a “cruel betrayal” over fishing powers.
A UK Government spokesman said: “When we leave the EU, we will leave the Common Fisheries Policy and regain control of access to our waters.
“As part of a new partnership we want to continue to work with the EU to manage shared stocks in a sustainable way.”