UK Fishers: EU Agreement
Debate between Baroness Hayman of Ullock and Lord Geddes(4 days, 2 hours ago)
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Baroness Hayman of Ullock (Lab)
We will always negotiate in good faith. Regarding any new negotiations, we do not have any talks with the EU currently scheduled. We are content with the existing agreement and with the full and faithful implementation of the TCA post-2026 fisheries access arrangements. However, we will of course listen to the EU and the industry, and we intend to continue to protect the interests of UK fishers.
Lord Geddes (Con)
Can the Minister comment on recent reports that our fishers are using heavier ropes to avoid snagging mammals, whales, dolphins and creatures of that ilk?
Baroness Hayman of Ullock (Lab)
I am not aware of any such reports. If the noble Lord would like to share them, I would be very happy to see them. Regarding mammals being caught, we are proceeding with electronic monitoring to get better data. The reports that come in are probably only the tip of the iceberg of the number of mammals that are affected.