Proposals to restore Rosyth to Europe ferry route.
A direct trade route between Scotland and Europe could reopen
under proposed changes in legislation.
Minister for Agriculture & Connectivity has instructed officials to
prepare a consultation on legislation that will enable the
reintroduction of a ferry route between Rosyth and Dunkirk.
The changes would increase access to the EU market for Scottish
exports which have been negatively impacted by Brexit by allowing
flexibility on the location requirements for a Border Control
Post (BCP).
Food and agricultural products must undergo biosecurity checks at
a BCP before entering Scotland from the European Union and vice
versa.
The existing port at Rosyth is not able to facilitate border
checks however these are already in place just over 20 miles away
at Grangemouth. The proposed legislation would allow products
arriving from the EU to be docked at Rosyth and then checked at
the BCP in Grangemouth.
Following the withdrawal of the freight only Rosyth to Zeebrugge
service in April 2018, there have been no direct roll-on/roll-off
ferry services from Scotland to Europe.
Deputy First Minister, has already written to UK
Secretary of State for Scotland, confirming the Scottish
Government's intent to do all it can to remove obstacles to the
project.
Ms Forbes also sought confirmation of the UK Government's
willingness to address at pace the components of effective border
control which remain reserved.
Danish-owned ferry operator DFDS has been working with the
Scottish Government and is considering a freight and passenger
vessel service, three times per week with a sailing time of
twenty hours.
Mr Fairlie said:
“This is a strategically important trade route for Scotland
particularly for our agricultural sector and it is imperative
that we do all we can to counter the negative impact we are
experiencing to Scottish exports following our removal from the
European Union.
“We will do all we can to ensure this direct freight and
passenger ferry service to Europe is delivered as quickly and
efficiently as possible.”
Background
A short consultation will be launched as soon as possible, with
the Scottish Statutory Instrument planned to be made before
Scottish Parliament is dissolved for the 2026 Elections.
