John Flesher, of the Conservative Environment Network, said sandeels are crucial species for feeding native British birds like puffins and kittiwakes.
He added: “The last government was absolutely right to ban fishing of sandeels in the interests of protecting our seas and the beautiful creatures that rely on them.
“The ability to protect the environment in British waters is a real and tangible benefit of Brexit. It would be a tragedy to throw it away. Ministers must hold firm against the EU’s threats to undo this important conservation measure, and the EU should up its own game on marine protection at a time when the oceans are under such severe threat.”
A UK government spokesman said: “We remain committed to protecting our seabirds and the wider marine environment, including fulfilling our international commitments which are distinct to our immediate focus of improving cooperation with the EU on security and tackling barriers to trade.”
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