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Starmer, Keir

Starmer's Fishing Deal Criticized by Conservatives as Business Owners Fear "Killing" Effect

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Kemi Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party, has spoken out against Sir Keir Starmer's deal with the EU, saying that fishermen in Bridlington, East Yorkshire, are "forgotten" by the government. The deal, which grants a 12-year extension to a post-Brexit agreement allowing European fleets access to British waters, has been criticized by many within the fishing industry. Fishermen who met with Badenoch expressed their concerns, stating that the deal will "kill" their businesses. They also claimed that the industry is struggling to find staff, with many preferring to work at supermarkets or as refuse collectors.

Key Takeaways:

  • The UK's trade deal with the EU, negotiated by Sir Keir Starmer, grants a 12-year extension to a post-Brexit agreement allowing European fleets access to British waters.
  • This deal has been criticized by many within the fishing industry, who believe it was extended in exchange for closer trade, food, and farming ties with the EU.
  • Fishermen in Bridlington, East Yorkshire, have spoken out against the deal, claiming it will "kill" their businesses and that they feel "forgotten" by the government.
  • The industry is struggling to find staff, with many preferring to work in other sectors such as supermarkets or refuse collection.
  • Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has criticized the deal and stated that the government should have pushed for yearly negotiations on European access.
  • The deal has been defended by ministers, who argue it will provide fishermen with certainty for the future due to the 12-year agreement.

Statistics:

  • 12 years: The length of the extension granted to the post-Brexit agreement allowing European fleets access to British waters.
  • 12-year-old agreement: The post-Brexit agreement that was extended, set to allow European fleets to continue fishing in British waters.
  • 1969: The year the British fishing industry started to receive subsidies, after facing significant decline following Britain's accession to the EU.
  • 750 million: The estimated value of British seafood exports in 2019, indicating the economic importance of the fishing industry.

Sources:

  • PA Wire
  • The Independent

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