The Scotsman

Muddy waters

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We haven’t even left the EU yet, and we’re already seeing the unleashing of bullish competitiv­e behaviour over our shared fishing waters in the Baie de Seine. EU sceptics are lining up to take pot-shots at the French with an almost tangible display of self-righteousn­ess, as if they’ve been waiting for this moment to justify their insularity.

Fishing in the area is strictly limited by the French Government in order to allow the replenishm­ent of scallop stocks. Overfishin­g benefits no-one. Dimitri Rogoff, head of the Norman fishermen’s communitie­s, explained: “We don’t want to stop them from fishing, but they could at least wait until 1 October, so that we can share.”

Boat ramming was carried out by both French and British fishermen, as proven by

video clips. There should be restraint on both sides. This incident merely serves to highlight the breakdown in mutual respect between the UK and other European countries since we opted to walk away. Beethoven’s Ode to Joy has never seemed less appropriat­e as the EU’S official anthem in light of these events – the maestro must be turning in his grave. Michel Barnier deserves a medal for his infinite patience in dealing with a government which rejects the Union, but wants to keep the silver cutlery and the Chippendal­e furniture. CAROLYN TAYLOR

Gagiebank Broughty Ferry, Dundee

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