The Conservative politician who co-chaired the successful Vote Leave campaign during the EU Referendum met with a local husband and wife fishing business on a visit to Havant today (15 May) to support local MP candidate Alan Mak.
Former Education Secretary and Lord Chancellor Michael Gove held talks with Peter and Chantelle Williams, who run Fresh From The Boat, at Northney Marina on Hayling Island alongside Alan Mak.
The former Cabinet Minister and member of the Commons Brexit Committee discussed the impact of the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy on businesses such as Fresh From The Boat, and the opportunities that will emerge the UK negotiates Brexit. Michael Gove’s family ran a fishing business in Scotland. Peter Williams said taking back control of the UK’s economic zone and fishing waters was key to the future success of the UK fishing industry.
Following the meeting Gove backed Alan to help strengthen the Prime Minister’s hand in negotiations with the EU.
Michael Gove said: “It was great to visit Havant to support Alan and speak to a local fishing business. Alan is committed to delivering Brexit and a vote for him will help strengthen the Prime Minister’s hand if re-elected on 8 June. Once we leave the EU, new business opportunities will be created for the fishing industry, as we take back control of our fishing waters.”
After the meeting Michael Gove joined Alan’s campaign team for a canvassing session in Leigh Park, speaking with local voters on the doorstep.
Alan said: “Every vote for the Conservatives gives Theresa May a stronger hand as Brexit negotiations start. I’m delighted Brexit campaign leader Michael Gove came to Havant to support me, and listen to local residents about how we can use Brexit to improve our local economy. In particular, Brexit could lead to a fishing revival on the south coast. Conservatives recognise the importance of our fishing industry and we will be working hard to secure the best possible deal for our fishermen. Leaving the EU is a real opportunity to review fishing policy to ensure fair access to quotas, environmentally sustainable stocks and a healthy marine environment.”
Peter Williams, owner of Fresh From The Boat, said: “We thank Alan & Michael for joining us today to listen to our views on the fishing industry. We hope that Britain leaves the London Convention on fishing and we take back control of our waters and move forward with a healthy sustainable fishing industry, one which our business can survive.”
Picture 1: Alan Mak and Michael Gove speak to Peter and Chantelle Williams, owners of Fresh From The Boat.
Picture 2: Alan Mak, Michael Gove with Peter and Chantelle Williams alongside their fishing boat
Picture 3: Alan Mak and Michael Gove out canvassing in Leigh Park