Ruth Davidson and Michael Gove have joined forces to call for the UK to leave the common fisheries policy when Britain leaves the European Union.

The Scottish Conservative leader and the Environment Secretary were on different sides of the EU referendum campaign, but claimed it was "vital" the country regained control of its own waters after leaving the bloc in March 2019.

The demand was welcomed by Scottish fishermen who said the UK must operate as "a fully functioning coastal state" from day one following the exit.

The joint statement from the politicians said: "We believe it is vital that we regain control over our own fisheries management.

"We want to use the opportunity of Brexit to secure a sustainable marine environment for the next generation.

"As proud Scots, we feel a particular debt to fishing communities who are looking to government to deliver a better deal for them. We agree we must deliver a fairer allocation for the British fleet in our own waters.

"As we leave the EU, we want the UK to become an independent coastal state, negotiating access annually with our neighbours. And during the implementation period we will ensure that British fishermen's interests are properly safeguarded."