Are British Fishermen Losing Jobs Due to the EU or Brexit?

The age-old question of whether British fishermen are losing their jobs due to the EU or Brexit remains a point of heated debate. However, a closer examination of the current situation reveals that the primary reason for this displacement is actually Brexit and the UK government's subsequent actions, rather than the EU itself.

EU Rules and Quota Positions

British fishermen have long been under the burden of specific EU rules and quota positions. These rules and quotas were agreed to decades ago when the UK was negotiating its terms within the European Union. The low quotas are, in fact, a direct result of British fishermen selling their shares to other EU fleets. This decision was made by the UK government and not dictated by the EU.

The Current Situation and Brexit

Recent changes in the fishing industry are entirely due to the terms negotiated during Brexit and the UK's exit from the EU. The impact on the British fishing industry is a result of the negotiations and not a failure of the EU to uphold its promises. These changes were heavily influenced by the UK government's own negotiations and terms, which were agreed upon by those in power.

Impact on Fish Prices and UK Markets

Contrary to the notion that fish prices are rising due to the EU, the reality is that fish prices are expected to rise as the UK market increases its demand. The EU is likely to watch with interest as British fishermen move their catches to sell within UK markets, potentially leading to a rise in fish prices. This perceived rise is not due to EU rules but rather the natural market forces at play.

Historical Context and the Common Fisheries Policy

To understand the current situation, it's essential to look at the historical context. The Cod Wars, a series of conflicts over fishing rights in the 1970s, had a significant impact on the UK fishing industry. Many boats and jobs were lost as British fishermen were forced to give up access to fishing grounds. It wasn't until 2012 that the British government offered a compensation deal and apology to those who lost their livelihoods.

On the other hand, the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) came into effect in 1983 to address declining fish stocks in EU waters. This policy has seen some success, with fishing quotas slowly being increased. According to the latest government report for 2016, the impact of the CFP on fishing has been greater than that of the Cod Wars. However, the question remains: would the UK government have done better on its own?

UK Government's Role and Negotiations

Many argue that the UK would not have made a different decision if it had remained in the EU. The very existence of the CFP is a result of both the EU and the UK's collective efforts to preserve marine life. The belief that the UK could have made a better deal without the EU's constraints is a common misconception. The report from the House of Commons Library highlights that even outside the EU, the UK would likely still need to coordinate with other member states and implement quotas.

Despite its flaws, the CFP has led to a more sustainable fishing industry. The EU Common Fisheries Policy has helped, not harmed UK fisheries, as some opponents claim. The success of the policy has laid the groundwork for increasing quotas and a growing UK fisheries industry.

In conclusion, the displacement of British fishermen is a result of the UK's decision to leave the EU and the subsequent negotiations. It is not due to the EU's policies but rather the result of actions taken by the UK government. While there are challenges associated with the CFP, the broader context suggests that it has had a positive impact on the sustainability and growth of the UK fishing industry.