A prominent Devon fish exporter is voicing serious concerns over what he describes as a government strategy of exploiting the fishing sector in pursuit of wider trade objectives.
Ian Perkes, speaking to GB News, accused policymakers of repeatedly sacrificing the interests of fishermen for political gain. His remarks come amid reports that Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration is considering concessions on fishing quotas as part of a potential agreement with the European Union.
The prospective deal aims to grant British companies access to lucrative contracts within the EU’s €150 billion security fund, potentially unlocking billions of pounds worth of arms sales. However, this would likely involve freezing existing fishing quotas for European vessels operating in UK waters – a move expected to disproportionately impact key species like haddock, herring, and cod.
According to sources within the negotiation process, as reported by The Sun, this appears to be the “most probable outcome” of ongoing discussions.
Perkes expressed frustration, stating: “We’ve known for some time that our industry is used as a bargaining chip in larger games. We concede ground, and then they proceed with their plans. It’s another instance of being sold out.” He highlighted the cumulative impact on businesses, noting that several companies in Devon and Dorset have already collapsed due to escalating costs.
He continued: “We’re a small business here in Devon; our expenses have skyrocketed over the past five years. Many are struggling. My cousin’s export business was forced to close, and we’re seeing similar stories across the region.” Perkes emphasized the reliance on French infrastructure for exporting fish, stating, “The French effectively control the flow of goods, knowing they can restrict access to our catch – and often do, leaving us with significant financial losses.”
The Scottish Fishermen’s Federation has issued a strong rebuke of the proposed agreement. Chief Executive Elspeth Macdonald labelled it “ludicrous” that the government would prioritize military production over national food security.
“It is frankly absurd to sacrifice our nation’s ability to feed itself for the sake of producing weapons,” she stated.
Macdonald further criticized Starmer, suggesting he’d become the third Prime Minister – following Edward Heath in 1973 and Boris Johnson in 2020 – to compromise on fishing industry interests. She warned that such a decision would be met with widespread public disapproval, particularly within coastal communities where fishing is vital for employment and long-term prosperity.
The Federation claims its concerns have been consistently disregarded by government officials despite previous attempts to present their perspective.
