The UK's trade deal with the EU has been hailed as a "jobs boost for Plymouth". City MPs Fred Thomas and Luke Pollard have welcomed the government's announcement of a post-Brexit “reset” to cut red tape for travellers and businesses.
The deal will make it easier to import and export food and drink between the UK and EU with the hope of boosting British businesses and helping lower supermarket prices in the UK. It means it should also be easier to sell South West produce such as agricultural produce and shellfish into the EU again.
The UK has also granted European trawlers access to British fishing waters for a further 12 years. There is no change in the British quota or increase in the quota the EU is allowed to catch.
A £360 million fund for the UK fishing industry was also announced towards new technology to modernise the fleet and training to upskill the workforce.
The agreement means British holidaymakers will be able to use more eGates in Europe, while a Security and Defence Partnership paves the way for the UK defence industry to participate in the EU’s proposed new £150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defence fund.
Luke Pollard MP, Member of Parliament for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, said: "This agreement is a jobs boost for Plymouth. It cuts red tape to help South West businesses export more to the EU, as well as delivering a landmark Security and Defence Partnership.
“As a long time champion of the fishing industry in our region, I’m glad seafood exports to the EU will become easier, all without increasing the quota for EU vessels in British waters."
Fred Thomas MP, Member of Parliament for Plymouth Moor View, said: "This is good news for Plymouth. By cutting red tape, we’re helping local businesses get their goods into European markets, and lowering prices in our supermarkets.
“The long-awaited Security and Defence Partnership will strengthen British security and bring more jobs to Plymouth.
"And for folks looking forward to their summer holidays, it also means the end of long passport queues and easier pet travel.
“This is a good deal that delivers on our promises – protecting our borders and boosting the economy, all whilst sticking to the red lines of Brexit that people voted for."
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