An open letter coordinated by the APPG for the Ocean has secured the support of 44 MPs and Peers from across the political divide, calling on the Government to put scientific advice, ocean recovery and coastal communities at the centre of the UK–EU–Norway fisheries negotiations this October.
Addressed to Fisheries Minister Stephen Morgan MP, the letter urges the Government to secure an agreement that rebuilds fish populations, protects marine ecosystems and supports a sustainable future for the fishing industry.
The annual negotiations agree catch limits for shared fish stocks for the following year. These decisions are crucial to preventing overfishing and securing the long-term livelihoods of communities that depend on healthy seas.
The letter sets out five priorities:
Set fishing limits within precautionary scientific advice, with clear recovery measures for depleted fish populations.
Exclude bottom-towed fishing from whole Marine Protected Areas, safeguarding seabed habitats and spawning and nursery grounds.
Strengthen joint action to reduce bycatch and improve fishing selectivity.
Make effective monitoring and enforcement a condition of access to UK waters.
Support a fair transition towards low-impact fishing, protecting livelihoods while restoring marine ecosystems.
Parliamentarians also call for fishing opportunities to be allocated transparently, recognising environmental, social and local economic benefits and ensuring sustainable inshore fleets receive a fair share.
Chaired by Sarah Champion MP, the APPG for the Ocean is calling for an approach that recognises the connection between ocean recovery and a viable fishing industry. Following scientific advice and rebuilding fish populations are essential to securing the future for future generations.
Read the full letter below.
