Medical tests plan for fishermen are scrapped
SMALL-SCALE fishermen in Westcountry coastal communities will be freed from regulations as part of the Government’s plans to support the industry, says the Conservative Party.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper announced fishermen and women on vessels 10 metres or under will no longer require routine medical checks before taking to sea.
The Government says the decision underscores its commitment to support the livelihoods of smaller fishing businesses, which make up more than 80% of UK registered fishing vessels. The change will mean fishermen will not be forced to undergo costly and time-consuming medical assessments.
Cherilyn Mackrory, MP for Truro, and Falmouth, said: “I am glad that the Government has made the necessary changes to protect our vital fishing industry in Cornwall.” She added it was a “great relief” to fishers that “this unnecessary red tape has been slashed”. Steve Double, MP for St Austell and Newquay, added: “Our under 10m fishing fleet is at the heart of our local fishing communities such as Mevagissey and Newquay. It is vital we do all we can to support them and not put unnecessary obstacles, regulation, or cost onto them.”
While Anthony Mangnall, MP for Totnes and South Devon, said the announcement “shows that the Government is listening to the fishing community and removing bureaucratic restrictions that stand in the way of us having a successful and profitable fishing sector”.
However, Plymouth Sutton and Devonport Labour MP Luke Pollard: “This U-turn is welcome but comes too late for those fishers who have already sold their boats, fearing they wouldn’t pass the medical tests.”