British fisherman Paul Lines has launched a scathing attack on the Labour government, accusing them of "selling out" the UK fishing industry to the European Union.
In an impassioned interview with GB News, Lines expressed his frustration with Sir Keir Starmer's approach to fishing rights as the 2026 deadline for the current EU access agreement looms.
"We got a five-year deal tied in with energy, transport and aviation. They [EU] had us strangled then," Lines said.
"We can't go any further, there's nothing left. They have 54 per cent of our quotas now."
Paul Lines erupted on GB News as he discussed Labour's EU reset
GB NEWS / PA
Lines expressed particular anger about new requirements for tracking systems on fishing vessels.
"Now they're telling us we need tracking systems on our boats. Pull £1,000 out your backside to put one on. What are we to do?" he fumed.
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Prime Minister Keir Starmer shakes hands with European Commission president Ursula von der LeyenPAThe fisherman painted a bleak picture for those trying to maintain their livelihoods at sea.
"A fisherman trying to feed families and keep coastal communities alive, we're going to be sold out and there will be nothing left for us," Lines warned.
Lines didn't hold back in his assessment of the Prime Minister's leadership.
"Keir Starmer is a lie. He knee-jerks to everything. He's cosying up to von der Leyen and that won't benefit him at all - but what it will do is hurt coastal communities in this country," he said.
Lines joined Martin Daubney on GB News
GB NEWS
He described the current administration as "weak" and "spineless".
"We're a weak nation lead by weak people," Lines added, suggesting the government's approach would devastate coastal towns.
"If we used our resources properly, we'd have £6 billion go through our country."
The fishing rights agreement allowing EU vessels access to UK waters is set to expire in June 2026, creating anxiety on both sides of the Channel.
Industry representatives fear Labour may grant continued access without securing benefits for British fishermen as part of the government's promised EU "reset".
Mike Cohen, chief executive of the National Federation of Fishermen's Organisations, told Channel 4 News: "The EU has already opened the door to that revision."
Brussels sources have indicated the EU will push for at least a three-year fishing deal in upcoming negotiations.
Lines expressed deep concern for future generations of fishermen, including his own son.
"I have a son and a lot of fishermen have sons who want to go to sea. It's a complete copout," he said.
He warned that without change, fishermen would become "old boys with a blanket around us talking about what they used to be".
Despite his frustration, Lines remained defiant about the industry's future.
"I'm not ready to lay down my arms yet," he declared, vowing to continue fighting for British fishing rights.
