First Minister Eluned Morgan has welcomed a new deal struck between the UK and the EU, but said she would have "like more discussion" between the Welsh and UK governments on the issue of fishing. A key part of the deal, which comes after years of disagreements over Brexit, involves giving Europe fishing boats a further 12 years of access to British waters in exchange for easing some trade frictions. Morgan said the deal offered "more opportunity for jobs and growth", something that is "going to help people pay their bills". The Farmers' Union of Wales (FAW) said it welcomed efforts "to restore relations with our nearest trading partners", while the Welsh Fisherman's Association said its views broadly aligned with the National Federation of Fishermen's Organisations (NFFO), which said it was "very disappointed" with the deal. Responding to concerns about the deal in the fishing industry, Morgan said: "On the one hand I can understand there are some issues for them but on the other hand their ability to export is going to be much better than it was before." Asked if the Welsh government had been consulted over the effect on fishing - control of which is devolved to Wales - she said there had been talks but that she "would have liked more discussion". "We've had an idea of what's been going on the whole time but the detail wasn't finalised until the past few days," she said. The Welsh Labour government also welcomed the agreement, with Finance Minister Rebecca Evans saying Wales "is, and always will be, a proudly outward-looking European nation". Evans said the Welsh government welcomed the Labour UK government's "commitment to re-set relations with the EU", adding that improved relations between the UK and EU created "new opportunities for enhanced security, safety and economic prosperity for citizens and businesses on both sides of the channel". The UK Conservatives and Reform UK have described the deal as a "surrender" to the EU, with UK Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch saying that giving the EU access to British waters for 12 years "was three times longer than the government wanted". "We're becoming a rule-taker from Brussels once again," she said. Ian Rickman, president of the Farmers' Union for Wales (FUW), said he welcomed the efforts by the UK government to restore relations with the EU. "The long-term security of the EU market for the trading of agri-food products should not be underestimated given the current volatility of global markets amid tensions over tariffs," he said. Mr Rickman added that the FUW has raised concerns about "effective border checks on EU food imports entering the UK", and that the agreement should open the door to "ensuring that food imports and exports are subject to similar controls", creating a "level playing field" between UK and EU producers. The UK government said the deal would make it easier for food and drink to be imported and exported by reducing paperwork and checks. Some routine checks on animal and plant products will be removed completely, it said. In return, the UK will give the EU access to its fishing waters until 2038 - a 12-year extension of arrangements already in place. The post-Brexit deal on fishing rights, which gave EU boats continued access to UK waters, was set to expire at the end of June 2026. The UK government has also unveiled a £360m investment fund in coastal communities and the fishing industry. Fishing accounts for an estimated 0.4% of UK GDP, butBritish control over itsfishing waters was a big issue in the Brexit campaign. The Welsh Fisherman's Association said it was still working through the details of the deal, but questioned how the prime minister can "commit to an agreement that extends beyond his term of office". "Whilst it us understood that international agreements are not a devolved matter they nevertheless should be the result of consultation with the relevant Welsh ministers and indeed Welsh stakeholders which explains why today's news was so shocking," they said, adding that the organisation's view broadly aligned with the NFFO. The NFFO said granting 12 additional years to EU boats in UK waters "surrenders the best prospect that the fishing industry and coastal communities had for growth over the coming decade".
FM wanted 'more discussion' on EU fishing rights
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Welsh First Minister Calls for More Consultation on UK-EU Fishing Rights Agreement"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
First Minister Eluned Morgan has expressed a cautious optimism regarding a new fishing rights deal between the UK and the EU, while also highlighting the need for more extensive discussions between the Welsh and UK governments on the matter. The agreement, which emerged after lengthy negotiations post-Brexit, allows European fishing vessels an additional 12 years of access to British waters. In return, it aims to alleviate some trade frictions, presenting potential for economic growth and job creation in Wales. Morgan emphasized that this deal could significantly enhance the ability of Welsh fishermen to export their products, despite some industry concerns regarding its implications. The Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) and the Welsh Fisherman's Association have shown mixed reactions, with the FUW acknowledging the importance of restoring relations with EU trading partners, while the Fisherman's Association voiced disappointment over the deal's terms, particularly the extended access duration for EU boats.
The Welsh government, represented by Finance Minister Rebecca Evans, welcomed the agreement, asserting that it aligns with Wales's identity as an outward-looking European nation. Evans noted the potential for improved relations with the EU to foster economic prosperity and security for Welsh citizens and businesses. Conversely, opposition parties, including the UK Conservatives, criticized the deal as a capitulation to EU demands, arguing that it compromises British sovereignty over fishing waters. Concerns have also been raised regarding the lack of consultation with Welsh authorities, as the fishing rights issue is devolved to the Welsh government. The Welsh Fisherman's Association pointed out the need for greater involvement of Welsh stakeholders in negotiations, stressing that international agreements should reflect local interests. Overall, while the deal aims to simplify trade and bolster economic opportunities, it has sparked a debate on the balance between regional autonomy and international obligations.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article provides insight into the recent deal between the UK and EU regarding fishing rights, highlighting the mixed reactions from various stakeholders, particularly in Wales. First Minister Eluned Morgan expresses a cautious optimism about the agreement while also emphasizing the need for more dialogue between the Welsh and UK governments on fishing matters. The deal, which allows EU fishing boats continued access to British waters for an additional 12 years, has elicited both support and disappointment within the fishing community and related industries.
Stakeholder Reactions
Different stakeholders have varied responses to the deal. Eluned Morgan acknowledges the potential benefits for job growth and trade but also recognizes the concerns of the fishing industry. The Farmers' Union of Wales (FAW) supports the restoration of relations with EU trading partners, while the Welsh Fisherman's Association, along with the National Federation of Fishermen's Organisations (NFFO), expresses disappointment, indicating a divide in sentiment among industry representatives.
Government Communication
Morgan's call for more discussion suggests a gap in communication and collaboration between the Welsh and UK governments. This raises questions about the decision-making process and the extent to which local concerns were considered. The mention of late-stage discussions hints at a rushed agreement, potentially undermining the trust of those directly affected by the deal.
Public Sentiment and Political Implications
The article reveals an underlying tension regarding Brexit and the management of fishing rights. By framing the deal as an opportunity for job creation while acknowledging concerns, the article attempts to balance optimism with realism. The response from opposition parties, branding the deal as a "surrender" to the EU, signifies ongoing political friction and the potential for public discontent.
Broader Economic Impact
The implications of this deal extend beyond fishing. The emphasis on improved trade relations with the EU could suggest a broader economic strategy aimed at bolstering the Welsh economy post-Brexit. This is especially pertinent as the UK navigates its new relationship with Europe, where sectors like fishing play a significant role in local economies.
Community Support and Target Audience
The article predominantly targets individuals and groups concerned with economic and trade issues, particularly those involved in the fishing industry and local economies in Wales. By highlighting the mixed reactions, it appeals to both supporters and critics of the deal, aiming to foster a dialogue about the future of Welsh fishing rights and trade relations.
Market Reactions
While the immediate impact on stock markets is not addressed, the deal could influence companies involved in fisheries and trade. Investors may react based on the perceived stability of the fishing sector and its economic contributions.
Geopolitical Context
In the broader context of global power dynamics, this deal reflects the ongoing negotiations and adjustments following Brexit. It serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in international trade agreements and the need for continuous dialogue to address stakeholder concerns.
Artificial Intelligence Considerations
There is no clear indication that artificial intelligence was used in the writing of this article. However, if AI were involved, it might have influenced the language to present a more neutral or balanced view, potentially guiding how stakeholder opinions were framed. The focus on multiple perspectives may reflect an effort to appeal to a wider audience.
In conclusion, the article presents a nuanced view of the recent fishing rights deal, illustrating the complexities of post-Brexit negotiations and the varied reactions from different stakeholders. The balance of optimism and concern indicates a careful approach to communication in a politically sensitive environment.