Many thanks to those who got in touch with me on the Trade and Cooperation Agreement reached with the EU.
Clearly, our withdrawal from the EU was an issue that divided opinion. Ultimately, I am pleased that we secured a comprehensive trade deal with the EU, representing our full withdrawal from the body.
The deal ensures that there are no tariffs or quotas for trade in goods between the UK and the EU. This is the first time that the EU has agreed such a deal.
After a five year transition period, the UK will have full control of its fishing waters with the fish available to UK fishermen rising from 50 per cent to 66 per cent. Total Allowable Catch and access to waters in the future will be negotiated on an annual basis.
Security cooperation with the EU on DNA, fingerprints, vehicle registration data, Passenger Name Records and with Europol and Eurojust will help to keep people on both sides of the Channel safe.
To conclude, I was very pleased to fulfil a key manifesto pledge by voting in favour of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement on 30th December 2020.
