As the United Kingdom prepares to leave the European Union, one of the most pressing issues is how to manage the country`s fisheries. For decades, the EU and the UK have been intertwined in their fishing policies, with the EU allowing its member states to fish in UK waters while UK vessels have been able to fish in EU waters. However, with the impending Brexit, the future of these fishing agreements has become a contentious issue.

The current fisheries agreement between the EU and the UK allows EU member states to fish in British waters under a quota system. The EU has access to around 40% of the fish caught in UK waters, with the UK receiving a share of the revenue. These arrangements have been a bone of contention for some in the UK, who argue that the country should have greater control over its own waters. The Brexit vote was seen by many as an opportunity to reclaim control over UK waters and ensure that the UK fishing industry was given greater priority.

However, the issue is not as simple as it seems. Many of the fish caught in UK waters are also sold to EU countries, and the UK fishing industry relies on exports to the EU to maintain its current level of business. The EU has been clear that any future trade agreement with the UK must take into account the importance of access to UK waters for EU member states.

Another factor is the impact of Brexit on the fishing industry itself. The UK fishing industry employs around 24,000 people and has an annual turnover of around £1.4 billion. However, leaving the EU could result in a loss of access to EU markets and increased costs for UK fishermen. The UK government has promised to invest in the industry and provide support to ensure that the sector is protected.

So, what does the future hold for the fisheries agreement after Brexit? The UK government has stated that it intends to leave the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) and establish its own fisheries policy. The CFP is a complex system of quotas and regulations that governs fishing in EU waters. The UK government has stated that it wants to establish a new system that is fairer for UK fishermen and ensures the sustainability of fish stocks.

However, negotiations have been slow, with the EU insisting that any future agreement must take into account the need for access to UK waters for EU member states. The UK government has also been criticized by some in the fishing industry for not being transparent about its plans for the sector after Brexit.

In conclusion, Brexit will have a significant impact on the UK fishing industry and the future of the fisheries agreement between the UK and the EU. The UK government must work closely with the fishing industry and EU member states to ensure that a fair and sustainable agreement is reached that supports the fishing industry and protects fish stocks for future generations.