Anthony Mangnall, Member of Parliament for Totnes & South Devon, spent last weekend at sea to learn more about how Brixham trawler fishermen operate.

Anthony joined the crew of Waterdance’s Georgina of Ladram, a 35.25m beam-trawler built in 2019. After leaving Brixham and heading out beyond the twelve-mile limit, the trawler cast its nets. For the next twenty-four hours they trawled, drew in hauls, separated targeted fish from by-catch, then gutted and put their catch on ice. Under a routine of two hours on two hours off, Anthony worked alongside the trawler’s highly skilled crew.

In-between shifts, Anthony took the opportunity to learn more about the challenges and opportunities facing the fishing community. Issues raised include finding local workers, which Anthony is hoping will be alleviated by the newly proposed fishing school that he has been working on with South Devon College. Ongoing difficulties with French counterparts cast a shadow over recent progress made, but a new Fisheries Committee will provide the opportunity to discuss, debate and find solutions as part of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement. Anthony was happy to support the recently Levelling Up Fund bid, which will make a huge difference in supporting fishing crews and further developing Brixham harbour. Anthony is also a strong advocate of localism, speaking of the need to supply more local fish to our domestic market.

A vociferous supporter of the fishing industry, Anthony regularly speaks up for our local fishing communities in Westminster and highlights the need to look after our waters and support future growth.

The fishing and aquaculture sectors have faced significant challenges in recent months, but the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is listening and offering support. More news is expected soon about the £100 million fisheries fund which will be beneficial to the fishing communities in Brixham, Salcombe and Dartmouth. The first part of the fund has recently been announced, with £24 million of investment available to fishing businesses across the UK to develop technology, trial new gear and support world-class research.

Speaking after his trip, Anthony Mangnall MP said:

’It was a privilege to be invited to experience first-hand what it is like to work on one of the Brixham trawlers. Given that I spend such a considerable amount of time in Westminster speaking on fish-related matters, I felt it was important to enhance my knowledge and understanding of how the industry works. I did not know what to expect, but I can honestly say that my short time at sea gave me a newfound appreciation for the hard work and determination of our fishermen. I return to Westminster armed with better insight and understanding, and my own resolve to continue to speak up for the fishing sector.

Thanks to the Georgina of Ladram crew for welcoming me on board.’