The Scottish Government has refused to sign up to the UK Government’s clause 11 amendments to the EU Withdrawal Bill, because the latest changes include a seven-year period when Holyrood could not legislate on fishing, among other devolved issues. The move comes after the UK Government agreed the UK fishing industry would remain in the Common Fisheries Policy until 2021, but stripped of its current voting rights.
Banffshire and Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson said Conservatives were trying to tie Holyrood’s hands, not taking back control as promised. The Tories have one view of Scottish fishing and one view alone, said Mr Stevenson, pictured. They see it as expendable. Under Tory plans there will be no taking back control of Scottish waters, no influence in fishery reforms, no say in quotas it’s an absolute disgrace. A UK Government spokeswoman said UK ministers recognised the importance of the fishing industry and of working with Holyrood.
Aberdeen Journals Ltd 2018