The Fisheries agreement must be viewed in the context of the legal framework inherited from the previous Government. The Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) already provided a de facto guarantee for EU boats’ access to UK waters beyond 2026. This new deal, which provides stability to our fishing industry, was a pragmatic decision taken in the national interest and secures reciprocal access into EU waters for UK vessels as part of the deal. Crucially, the deal ensures the retention of the significant quota uplift agreed in the Trade and Cooperation Agreement and, combined with the new food and drink agreement, delivers tangible returns for our fishing community by reducing administrative burdens for UK seafood exporters and reopening the EU market to products like GB shellfish from certain domestic waters. For instance, over 65% of all UK seafood by value is exported to the EU. Removing the need for Export Health Certificates and border checks saves time and money—especially for fresh and live fish that needs to reach markets quickly. For example, take Export Health Certificates, which can cost UK businesses up to £200 per consignment— these will no longer be required, leading to real savings for our exporters. This practical package of measures supports British jobs, creates certainty for coastal communities, and removes costly barriers to trade with our largest market. This Government will always stand up for the British fishing industry and coastal communities, which is further underscored by the launch of the “Fishing & Coastal Growth Fund” investing £360 million over the next 12 years to support the next generation of fishermen and breathe new life into our coastal communities. Ministers from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) are routinely subject to scrutiny by Parliament through Select Committee evidence sessions, debates, and departmental questions. This established framework ensures that the Government is held to account for the operation of all its policies, including those related to the UK- EU fishing arrangements. The Government will continue to use these existing mechanisms to provide regular updates to Parliament on matters concerning the fisheries deal and to discuss any issues arising from the operation of the UK-EU Specialised Committee on Fisheries.