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The Brexit negotiations have advanced tentatively as fishing emerged as one of the most divisive points in talks with the European Union. Brussels has demanded continued access to British waters for its vessels after the end of the transition period in December. But Michael Gove noted that the UK remains unwilling to compromise, insisting that maritime security capabilities will be strengthened once Britain leaves the bloc.
Addressing his colleagues in the House of Commons, Mr. Gove said: “Under the Common Fisheries Policy, it is not only the case that we have lost environmentally, it is also the case that coastal communities have also lost.
“As an independent coastal state, we will be able to rebalance the opportunities in our waters to ensure that our coastal communities can benefit more financially.
“And we will replace the European Sea Fisheries Fund with new funding to ensure that there are facilities on land to help with the processing of the fish we catch.
“And, of course, we will also improve our maritime security capabilities.”
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The warning comes as British negotiator Lord Frost continues his attempts to reach an agreement with Brussels on fisheries.
The problem is the “key to unlocking a deal, “according to EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier.
However, Express.co.uk understands that the French is demanding that Britain accept a large part of the EU fleet quotas in exchange for access to the common market.
A Whitehall source said: “Brussels seems to be playing here, we are determined to secure a deal.
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Since the start of negotiations with Brussels, the UK has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Greenland to enhance cooperation on fisheries.
The agreement with Greenland is the third coastal agreement established after successful talks with Norway and the Faroe Islands concluded in early autumn.
Fisheries Minister Victoria Prentis said: “The UK and Greenland have a proud history as outward-looking countries and have benefited from the wealth of our seas.
“As we regain our position as an independent coastal state, we are committed to working with our Northeast Atlantic neighbors, such as Greenland, to benefit our fishing industries and our marine environment.”
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