Norwegian Fisheries Minister Per Sandberg has held a meeting in London with his UK counterpart George Eustice, setting out clear requirements.

‘Britain is our fourth largest market. It is essential to ensure at least equal market access for Norwegian fish after Brexit, and today’s meeting was a good start,’ Per Sandberg said.

‘We agree that we must avoid getting into a situation where there is lack of clarity on what happens after Brexit, therefore we are starting the dialogue now.’

He emphasised the importance of Norwegian fish for British consumers.

‘Britain’s national dish of fish & chips is completely dependent on imports of Norwegian cod and haddock. In recent years, we also see that the British have definitely acquired a taste for Norwegian salmon. Since 2012, the export value increased by over 200%.’

He commented that allocation of fishing quotas is another major issue for Norway, saying that Britain’s economic zone is very important for EU fisheries.

‘Leaving the EU will change the political map of the North Sea and the north-east Atlantic. This has direct consequences for Norwegian fishermen. We have to be on the ball as regards both the EU and the UK. Brexit means we must establish new agreements on the management and allocation of stocks in the North Sea,’ he said.