Fishing policy splits party

The Scottish Fishermen’s Federation has insisted Scotland must abandon the EU Common Fisheries Policy.

The organisation made its views clear in the aftermath of a heated row at Holyrood over an SNP split between fishing and EU membership.

Banff and Buchan MP, Eilidh Whiteford, and Angus MP, Mike Weir, among other Nationalist politicians, have signed a pledge to ditch the controversial policy.

However, First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, insisted her party’s position was for an independent Scotland to seek full EU membership which would include signing up to the CFP.

Speaking at first minister’s questions, Scottish Conservative leader, Ruth Davidson, maintained the two positions were incompatible and

“She thinks she can face both ways on fishing”

asked the SNP leader to clarify her stance.

Ms Sturgeon responded: “The SNP has been consistent over many years in our criticisms of the common fisheries policy and very clear about our intentions to see it fundamentally reformed.

“We know that the Tories are lining up to sell out fishing again, because the Brexit white paper makes it clear that fishing will just be a negotiating chip in the Brexit talks.

“The SNP stands up for fishermen; Tories sell them out.”

Ms Davidson retorted: “Nicola Sturgeon is treating the electorate like fools. She thinks she can face both ways on fishing, the EU and independence, promising all things to all people.

“But Scotland’s fishing communities can see straight through this approach, and won’t forgive the SNP.”