The United Kingdom and the European Union recently announced a landmark agreement. Jointly overcoming pernicious issues of fisheries, trade, and security, this agreement ushers in a new and exciting post-Brexit chapter of Anglo-French relations. This breakthrough deal was announced on Monday during the first UK-EU summit hosted by Labour leader Keir Starmer in London since the UK’s official departure from the EU in January 2020.
Brexit is shorthand for the UK’s departure from the 28-nation trade bloc that is the EU. That choice was the result of a narrow decision in a June 2016 referendum, in which 52 percent of voters opted to leave. Since then talks have continued apace, resulting in a deal reached by BoJo’s Conservative Party in the final month of 2020. The new agreement alleviates fear of infringement on fishing rights and strengthens economic partnership. It makes significant strides toward improving long-term environmental sustainability.
Key Elements of the Deal
One of the most important provisions of the newly minted treaty is the complex structure of fishing rights established among the members. The agreement reduces the allowable catch for EU fishing vessels that fish in UK waters by a quarter. It does go on to extend access for these vessels through 2038. This extension has alarmed environmentalists, fishery management advocates, and many different stakeholders in the fishing industry.
Elspeth Macdonald, chief executive of the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation (SFF), said she was very annoyed by the deal.
“This highlights the total indifference of the British political establishment to the interests of our fishing sector.” – Elspeth Macdonald
Now that plan has rolled out, critics like Nigel Farage, leader of the far-right Reform UK party, are raising alarms. They caution about the danger posed to the fishing economy writ large.
“If true that will be the end of the fishing industry.” – Nigel Farage
The agreement contains specific articles that connect carbon markets between the UK and the EU. This important connection is intended to ensure that carbon taxes do not worsen existing harmful trade dynamics. Under the previous 2020 post-Brexit arrangements, the EU agreed to a phased reduction of its fishing quota from the UK’s waters. This direct reduction will increase to 25 percent by 2026. This new deal changes all that and opens the door to longer access for EU fishing vessels.
Economic Implications
Fisheries are not the only economic focus of the agreement to strengthen cooperation between the two administration’s economies. At the same time, Keir Starmer’s office has just launched a £360 million development bank. This fund would assist coastal communities affected by sudden fishery management decisions and other changes in economic circumstances. This initiative seeks to mitigate some of the financial impact experienced by those reliant on fishing as a primary source of income.
In a detailed thread on social media platform X, Starmer outlined several ways he believes this deal will benefit Britain. He welcomed it as an indication of a willingness to focus on solutions to post-Brexit challenges, while building productive connections with European counterparts.
“We rolled up our sleeves to deliver what the last government couldn’t.” – Keir Starmer
10 Downing Street highlighted that combined measures from sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) protocols and emissions trading systems are projected to contribute nearly £9 billion to the UK economy by 2040.
Political Reactions and Concerns
The political climate around this pact continues to be charged, with different groups reacting sharply to the prospect of a historic agreement. Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch came out against parts of the agreement, warning that it would deepen regulatory oversight by Brussels.
“We’re becoming a rule-taker from Brussels once again. And with no details on any cap or time limits on Youth Mobility, fears of free movement returning will only increase. This is very concerning.” – Kemi Badenoch
Some proponents of Brexit have gone so far as to label comedy opponents liars for walking back on issues with past legislation. Ed Davey shared his frustration on social media, stating:
“Social media this morning is a zombie apocalypse of dinosaur Tory politicians and right wing hangers-on hankering after the nasty Brexit wars of the last decade. Our country has moved on!” – Ed Davey
Reactions have been both positive and critical. On balance, most think that this deal marks an important step in stabilizing UK-EU relations after Brexit. Whatever is passed next will undoubtedly be monitored closely as all involved parties look to measure long-term effects on both sides.
