The UK authorities’s proposed funding allocation for Scotland’s fishing business has been branded “an insult” by Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon.
Forward of a vote at Holyrood on Tuesday, the SNP minister is urging MSPs to agree that Scotland ought to obtain extra from the Fishing and Coastal Progress Fund.
Her feedback come after the UK authorities confirmed it’ll give Scotland 7.78% of funding – allocating £28m of the £360m accessible.
Ms Gougeon mentioned the proposed funding is “unacceptable” as Scotland accounts for greater than 60% of the UK’s fishing capability and seafood exports.
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Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon. Pic: PA
The MSP mentioned: “Scotland accounts for greater than 60% of the UK’s fishing capability – but this UK Labour authorities thinks it’s acceptable to present us simply 7.78% of the funding. It’s utterly unjustifiable and an insult to the sector in Scotland.
“As part of the EU, Scotland received 46% of the funding allocated to the UK – but with the Labour government seeking to cut this down to a tiny fraction, it begins to look like Westminster is using Brexit for a cash grab for the sector south of the border.”
The UK authorities’s selections on the alternative funding may imply Scotland can be over £100m down.
Ms Gougeon is urging MSPs from all events to struggle the choice.
She mentioned: “I’m asking MSPs from all events to return collectively in the present day and clarify that that is utterly unacceptable and the UK authorities should reverse this choice.
“And there is a critical challenge for Scottish Labour here. Will they stand up for a crucial Scottish industry and its workforce or will they once again stand up for Keir Starmer?
“Scotland’s fishing business is being short-changed by Westminster to the tune of greater than £100m. As we speak, our parliament can unite to clarify that it is a utterly unacceptable insult and to demand that the UK authorities present a good deal for Scotland.”
A spokesperson for the Division for Setting, Meals and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) mentioned: “This fund will revitalise the fishing sector and coastal communities right across the UK, spurring growth as part of our plan for change.
“Supporting devolved governments with this new funding will assist get the cash to the place it is most wanted, so the sector can thrive for generations to return.”
