Joint Statement on UK Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund

APPG on Fisheries and APPG for Shellfish Aquaculture

On May 19, the UK Government announced a significant investment initiative known as the Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund, totaling £360 million over twelve years. This fund aims to drive growth and modernize the UK fishing sector, providing critical support for sustainable wild capture fisheries and shellfish aquaculture. Key areas of investment will include new technology, equipment upgrades, and promoting British seafood exports globally.

Collaboration with the Industry

The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Fisheries and the APPG for Shellfish Aquaculture expressed their support for the Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund. Both groups are dedicated to ensuring that the unique challenges faced by coastal communities are acknowledged and addressed within Parliament. They aim to facilitate a dialogue between the government and industry stakeholders to target investments effectively.

Importance of a Strategic Approach

Both APPGs emphasize the necessity for a long-term strategic approach in supporting UK fisheries and aquaculture sectors. This will not only contribute to the sustainability of marine ecosystems and food security but also align with commitments to climate action and biodiversity. Understanding the various complexities faced by the industry, the APPGs highlight key requirements for the fund’s effective implementation:

• Learning from past successes and failures.
• Ensuring accessibility for various stakeholders, regardless of size.
• Incorporating flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Linking to a comprehensive, long-term strategic plan for the sector.

Upcoming Seminar for Industry Insights

To gather insights and illuminate industry priorities, both APPGs will co-host an open parliamentary seminar titled Investing in UK Fishing, Shellfish Aquaculture and the Coast on June 25. This event will serve as a platform for parliamentarians, policymakers, and sector professionals to discuss effective allocation of the Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund.

Voices from the APPG Leadership

APPG on Fisheries Co-Chair, Melanie Onn MP, noted the integral role that the fisheries sector plays in coastal communities. She expressed optimism about the fund’s potential to target investment where it is needed most, especially concerning skills gap and infrastructure needs.

Similarly, Caroline Voaden MP, Chair of the APPG for Shellfish Aquaculture, highlighted the importance of government support for sustainable aquaculture, calling it an industry of the future that deserves more attention and investment.

In addition, Alistair Carmichael MP, Co-Chair of the APPG on Fisheries, underscored the need for a cohesive long-term strategy that not only promotes investment but also supports regional economic resilience and sustainable food supply.

Register for the Seminar: The APPG on Fisheries and APPG for Shellfish Aquaculture invite interested parties to join the online seminar on June 25 from 10:00 to 11:30 am. Register at the following link: Investing in UK Fishing, Shellfish Aquaculture and the Coast.