Alistair Carmichael MP, Chair of the EFRA Committee, emphasised the importance of the fishing industry to the UK’s island and coastal communities, stating:
“The fishing industry is rooted in the island and coastal communities that help define our country. It is at the heart of local communities and a vital part of many local economies.
“The fishing sector had hoped to see improved opportunities when the United Kingdom left the EU. In this inquiry, we will examine the implementation of government fisheries policy since Brexit.
“There are also concerns among the fishing community about changes from June 2026 onwards to the UK-EU arrangements for access and catch allocations. We will consider whether the Government’s current approach will deliver the best possible outcomes for the UK.
“More widely, our inquiry will also examine the state of the marine environment, looking at the protection of marine mammals and seabird species.”
Aims of the Inquiry
The EFRA Committee aims to identify solutions to challenges facing the fishing sector, including labour shortages, regulatory impacts, and environmental pressures. By delving into marine conservation and fisheries policy, the inquiry seeks to ensure a sustainable future for both the fishing industry and the marine environment.
This investigation comes at a critical time for the fishing sector, as the UK continues to navigate post-Brexit realities and evolving international partnerships.