AN environment minister has said it is a 'brave new world' for the UK's fishing industry after visiting Weymouth to speak directly to the area's fishing community.
Minister of state at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Victoria Prentis MP took to Weymouth Harbour yesterday morning to speak directly to fishermen in Weyfish, on Custom House Quay, about their concerns for the future of domestic fishing.
The minister and North Oxfordshire MP said the Government is now putting efforts into the country's bid to regain control of British waters - which was a major part of the Leave campaign.
READ MORE: Condor Ferries boss visits Weymouth
She said: "The Weymouth, Portland and surrounding area is incredibly important to the UK's fishing industry.
"Speaking directly to those representing the area's fishing community is key for the Government's decision making going forward.
"We're keen to iron out issues about the domestic sale of fish including sole and bass - and how beneficial they will be to our economy post-Brexit.
"There are licensing issues with the sale of bass in our waters, which we want to get a grip on - as well as creating a quota for sole, which works in favour for our fishing industry.
"It's a brave new world for our fishing industry after Brexit."
In August, Minister Prentis confirmed the Government valued the 2021 post-Brexit North Sea sole quota boost at £13m, and £18.8m for plaice.
Joining the minister on her visit to Weymouth was South Dorset MP Richard Drax, who said the visit would feature a trip to the oyster farm off Ferrymans Way, in Wyke Regis before finishing the visit in Lyme Regis to speak to fisheries there.
He said: "It's great to have the fishing minister come to the south Dorset coast to speak directly to those working its fisheries and to take on board any issues they may have.
"As part of the visit, we will speak to those working at the oyster farm to see firsthand how the health of fish being sold is monitored.
"I have no doubt our fishing community will benefit from post-Brexit fishing because we will have more control over our waters, which will help thriving businesses in the area such as Weyfish on the harbour."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel