April 23, 2020

English fishing, aquaculture firms to get GBP10 million pandemic aid

The UK government has launched a new multi-million-pound fisheries support scheme that will offer more than 1,000 fishing and aquaculture companies in England to receive direct cash grants.

Announced by Environment Secretary George Eustice and Chief Secretary to the Treasury Steve Barclay, the fund is the latest step to protect businesses affected by COVID-19, with up to GBP9 million (US$11.2 million, EUR10.3 million) made available for eligible fishing and aquaculture businesses.

A further GBP1 million (US$1.2 million, EUR1.1 million) will be made available to support projects to assist fishermen to sell their catch in their local communities. This money will help fishing businesses find new ways to market and sell their catch while traditional markets are restricted, not only supporting the sector but also the local communities that depend on the industry.

"Given the loss of trade particularly to restaurants as a result of COVID-19, this support will help fishing businesses weather the current challenges they face, and facilitate new growth in retail markets through innovative local distribution," Barclay said.

The support scheme will run for up to three months.

Because the majority of fish caught by the English fleet is usually destined for overseas markets, the industry has been hit hard by the closure of traditional export markets and the reduction in demand from the hospitality sector.

"This GBP10 million scheme will provide a lifeline for more than 1,000 fishing businesses so they can continue to maintain and operate their boats during this challenging time, which has seen falling prices and lack of demand for fish from the restaurant industry," Eustice said. "We are continuing to work closely with the fishing and aquaculture industry to ensure that they are supported and can get back to their vital role of providing fish for the table while contributing to the economy of many of our coastal communities."