All Party Parliamentary Group on Fisheries hosts EU Commissioner

On 11 March, the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Fisheries (APPG) welcomed Costas Kadis, European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, alongside members of his Cabinet and representatives from the European Union’s Delegation to the United Kingdom, for an exchange on fisheries priorities and cooperation.

In his opening remarks, Alistair Carmichael MP, Co-Chair of the APPG on Fisheries, outlined the APPG’s work on an Action Plan for UK fishing, which will set out a clear vision for UK fishing, offer a strategic framework for its realisation, and aims to contribute to a coherent, forward-looking approach that situates the sector within broader priorities such as food security.

In response, Commissioner Kadis provided an update on the European Ocean Pact, which, across six core pillars, aims to holistically align EU ocean policies, including relating to fisheries, and strengthen collaboration both within the EU and with external partners.

Commenting on the meeting, APPG Co-Chair Alistair Carmichael said:

“It is no secret that our fishing communities have been frustrated by the poor deals struck on quota and access by past and present UK governments. That makes it all the more essential that those of us with an interest in fisheries policy develop a clear understanding of the direction of travel within the EU, so that we can better hold our own government to account going forward.

“As co-chair of the All-Party Group and Chair of the EFRA Select Committee I was glad to have a full and open discussion with the Commissioner on fisheries policy across the piece.

“Though the UK and EU now operate under separate frameworks, our fisheries remain connected. Constructive engagement like this is key to building the shared understanding and respect needed to support sustainable management, safeguard regulatory autonomy, and secure prosperous fishing communities.”

EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis added:

“The sustainable management of ocean space is a global necessity – and only by working together, including through strong EU‑UK cooperation, can we ensure that our seas remain healthy, our resources protected, and our coastal communities thrive."