A new alliance has been formed in Lowestoft in an attempt to revitalise the town's fishing economy.
The Lowestoft Fish Market Alliance organised a meeting at the Orbis Energy Centre today where industry experts convened to discuss the post-Brexit future of British fishing.
Members of Fishing for Leave, the New Under Ten Fishermens Association (NUFTA) and the National Federation of Fishermen's Organisations (NFFO) attended as part of a question and answer session with fishermen from all over the country.
Paul Line, of the Lowestoft Fish Market Alliance, said: 'Today laid the cornerstones for a new beginning for the fishing industry in Lowestoft.
'The floor agreed that instead of talking as singular voices all three delegates should join as one and make sure we have a communal voice which is heard.'
The goal is simple says Mr Line: 'We want 200 miles of sea and all the fish within it.'
Aaron Brown, of Fishing for Leave, said: 'We want to see through the automatic repatriations of all sources within the 200-mile exclusive zone.
'Brexit is a fantastic opportunity to rebuild a multi-billion pound industry.
He added: 'All the government have to do is allow Article 50 to run its course. The only way we lose fishing is if the government gives it away a second time.'
The call for unity was echoed my Waveney MP Peter Aldous who said: 'With the Brexit negotiations starting there is a real opportunity but we must work very hard and speak with one voice.'
Mike Hookem, MEP and UKIP fisheries spokesman was less optimistic about Brexit. He said: 'Today I have seen the anger in this industry.
'I believe in our fishing industry. It's our fishing, our waters, our jobs, but they are being ignored and they will be betrayed in the Brexit negotiations.'
At the meeting fishermen voiced concerns that EU regulations meant they 'could no longer make an honest living.'
Mr Line was optimistic as he concluded: 'This has been a joining of the troops as we get poised for the forthcoming Brexit negotiations.'
•What do you think? Email lowestoft.journal@archant.co.uk
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