ENGLAND’S most lucrative fishing port defied Brexit doom-mongers by posting a record haul for 2021.
Brixham Fish Market, which often nets most by value, landed £43.6million of seafood.
The Devon port topped last year’s £35.8million and the previous £40.3million record from 2017.
It comes after the UK quit the EU’s Common Fishery Policy in December 2020, returning control of who fishes in British waters and how much they can take for the first time since 1973.
Critics had claimed EU seafood export rules would cripple the industry but sources say Brixham prepared well.
Barry Young, boss of Brixham Trawler Agents, said the port had thrived.
He said: “Despite the pandemic and Brexit rumours we’ve seen our sales to domestic markets and exports to the EU increase nicely.
“The positive story is well reflected in these record sales numbers.”
Local MP, Tory Anthony Mangnall said: “It shows the opportunities and benefits to can be found as an independent trading nation.”
