UK gov reveals stock recovery plans

A further £4 million as part of the £100 million UK Seafood Fund has also been announced.

The plans are the next step in delivering a thriving and sustainable industry and healthy marine environment following the UK’s exit from the EU, say ministers.

“We are taking full advantage of our position as an independent coastal state outside the EU to deliver for the UK fishing industry and the coastal communities it supports,” said Fisheries Minister Mark Spencer.

“Today’s announcements are the result of direct dialogue with industry over many months, and will help to deliver sustainable stocks and a modern and profitable fishing industry for the future.”

The first five Fisheries Management Plans set out how the government will work with the fishing industry and other stakeholders to support the long-term future and sustainable management of the UK’s fish stocks such as crab, lobster, king scallop and bass.

Ministers say the plans will deliver long-term economic benefits through measures such as increasing minimum conservation reference sizes and introducing seasonal or area closures to protect juvenile and spawning stocks.

The UK has also formally ratified the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies which will help combat illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing around the world.

The announcement has been welcomed by the industry. Mike Cohen, chief executive of the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations, called the plans ‘genuinely ambitious’. “Fishers and fishing communities have more to lose than anyone if fish stocks are not sustainably managed,” he said.

“With knowledgeable stakeholders involved and good quality science at the heart of the process, FMPs are well placed to sustain and grow our fishing fleet’s ability to keep providing affordable, healthy, low-carbon food.”