The UK and EU are set for a legal showdown over fishing rights after failed negotiations on sand eels
London: The UK and the EU are heading to court next week. They couldn’t agree on sand eels, a type of fish. The UK has banned EU boats from catching them. This is to protect wildlife that depends on these fish.
The EU isn’t happy about this ban. They argue it unfairly targets Danish boats that catch sand eels for animal feed and fish oil. This could break the Brexit trade deal.
This court case is a big deal. It’s the first time since the Brexit deal that the two sides will face off in court over trade issues. The hearing starts on Tuesday at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague.
Three international judges will listen to both sides. They will decide whether to support the UK’s ban or tell them to lift it. If the UK doesn’t comply, the EU might hit back with tariffs on British goods.
A final decision is expected by the end of April. There won’t be any appeals allowed. Meanwhile, the UK and EU will also talk about new catch limits before June next year.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is hoping to use this situation to negotiate better deals with the EU. He wants to improve relations and focus on security and food trade.
