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Welcome to the APPG on Fisheries stakeholder newsletter. Through regular updates, we'll aim to keep you informed of policy developments, Parliamentary announcements and sector headlines. We'll also provide round-ups of current Committee inquiries and fisheries-focused monitoring of the Parliamentary record, Hansard.

Registration is open for our Careers on Land and at Sea event in Parliament on 12 June. Further details are at the end of this newsletter.

Parliament News
Scottish Government Reports on Fisheries Value

Figures released indicate that whilst total tonnage of seafood landed by the Scottish fishing fleet dropped by 20,000 tonnes compared to 2017, overall value increased by £12 million. Demersal landings rose whilst pelagic and shellfish landings fell.
Mussel Exporters Concerned for Post-Brexit Viability

UK mussel traders may not be able to meet new export standards following the UK's exit from the EU. This is in addition to possible border delays affecting quality. Some are concerned that these factors may make trade with the EU impossible.
ICES Doubles Recommended Mackerel Catch

In light of new findings, ICES has increased its catch figures for the mackerel fishery from 318,000 to 770,000 tonnes. This has been welcomed by the Norwegian fleet, but some groups are concerned that 'irresponsible' nations could lead to overall catch exceeding this figure.
Quotas Need Changing, Industry Tells Lords

Industry leaders have told the House of Lords EU Energy and Environment Sub-Committee that changing current UK fishing quota shares is likely the best way to fulfil the Landing Obligation. There are also concerns that exemptions for certain species have ‘watered down’ the discards ban.
Track the Fisheries Bill

The Fisheries Bill is over halfway through the House of Commons, and is currently awaiting the Report Stage, where proposed amendments can be made and further amendments considered. Track its progress here.

Committees
UK Parliamentary Committees consist of a small number of MPs and/or Peers appointed to deal with particular issues. There are several Committee inquiries and reports relevant to the fisheries industry.
 
Sustainable Development Goals Inquiry
The Environmental Audit Committee has held a one-off evidence session concerning the UK's Voluntary National Review of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). SDG 14 concerns our marine environment.

Scrutiny of the Fisheries Bill Inquiry
The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee launched a short inquiry on the proposed scope, provisions and powers in the Fisheries Bill. Their report is available and is awaiting government response.

Sustainable Seas Inquiry
The Environmental Audit Committee launched an inquiry examining how to protect marine life and how the Government can create a more sustainable blue economy. Their report is available and has received government response.

EU Landing Obligation Inquiry
The EU Energy and Environment Sub-Committee's inquiry concluded that the UK is 'unprepared for new fisheries conservation rules.' The government has responded to their report and it is now awaiting debate.

Fisheries News
A round-up of the latest UK-relevant fishing news from a variety of sources.

Blog Article Released for First APPG on Fisheries Event
Following the success of the 'Recruitment into Fishing Careers Event', the APPG Secretariat have produced an article giving an insider's perspective.

Seafood Scotland Release Strategic Action Plan for Sector
‘Changing Tides’ is designed to stimulate greater growth in the Scottish seafood sector. Focus areas include marketing, innovation, people and the supply chain.

Scottish Fisheries Minister Announces Fishing Safety Group
Speaking at the Skipper Expo International in Aberdeen, Fergus Ewing announced the creation of the group designed to advise on safety aboard Scottish vessels.

New Digital Tool to Identify IUU Fishery Products Entering EU
Released by the EU Commission, the CATCH tool aims to replace paper-based certification for imports and to combat illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing.

£2 Million Project for Seafood Centre of Excellence in Fraserburgh
Aberdeenshire Council’s cross party fisheries working group have been told that the project should eventually support 30 new businesses and hundreds of training roles.

Lerwick Port Authority to Create New White Fish Market
A £7.6 million investment is set to create facilities for a range of fisheries businesses, to ensure that Lerwick market becomes a major hub for coordinated trade.

Devon Fisherman Named Young Fisherman of the Year
22-year-old Ben Bengey from Ilfracombe has been awarded the national prize for his enthusiasm and commitment to the fishing community.
 

Hansard Monitoring
Hansard is the official record of debates, votes and ministerial statements in Parliament. Our newsletters will gather together any debates or questions concerning fisheries that have recently taken place.

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12 June 2019

10.30-11.30am | Westminster
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Contact the Secretariat for more information
Katrina Ryan, Sara Mynott and Jacob Ashton
secretariat@fisheriesappg.org
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The All Party Parliamentary Fisheries Group
Office of Sheryll Murray MP
Houses of Parliament
Westminster
London SW1A 0AA

secretariat@fisheriesappg.org

@FisheriesAPPG

Please note, The All Party Parliamentary Fisheries Group is not responsible for the content of external websites.

This is not an official publication of the House of Commons or the House of Lords. It has not been approved by either House or its committees. All-Party Parliamentary Groups are informal groups of Members of both Houses with a common interest in particular issues.