Brexit impact on Scots fisheries to be considered by Scottish Affairs Committee

Background

Scottish fisheries hit the headlines 18 January when industry workers launched a protest in Westminster to highlight problems exporting their produce to the EU. Increased customs bureaucracy since the end of the transition period has caused delays leaving fish rotting in lorries at the border, and some businesses close to the brink.

Purpose of the session

At the evidence session, MPs are expected to ask a panel including the Scottish Seafood Association’s Jimmy Buchan, Scottish Food and Drink’s James Whithers and Clyde Fishermen’s Association’s Elaine Whyte about;

• the implications to businesses of the EU-UK trade deal;
• the effect of the new customs arrangements on EU trade;
• impacts on fleets of different sizes;

In 2019, fish exports to the EU worth £1.4bn made up 67% of all fish exports from the UK, while imports £1.2bn worth of fish were imported from the block. Trade between the UK and the EU has been mutually beneficial for the fishing industry and consumers alike, as fish caught in the waters of one may better suit the tastes of people in the other. 60-80% of fish eaten in the UK are imported, with cod and salmon comprising the bulk of fish imports.

Witnesses

Thursday 4 February

At 11.30am

• Elaine Whyte, Executive Secretary, Clyde Fishermen’s Association;
• James Withers, Chief Executive; Scottish Food and Drink;
• Jimmy Buchan, Chief Executive, Scottish Seafood Association

Further information

• About Parliament: Select committees
• Visiting Parliament: Watch committees

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