Source · Select Committees · Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee
Recommendation 3
3
Acknowledged
The government clearly recognises the strong relationship between fishing activity and coastal community wellbeing.
Conclusion
The government clearly recognises the strong relationship between fishing activity and coastal community wellbeing. Evidence shows that challenges such as inadequate port infrastructure and limited skills and training pathways require targeted support to sustain active fishing communities. The Fund’s priorities for its first year reflect this need. However, from the second year, the Fund will cover a broader set of priorities and delivery will not be limited to the current Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS) framework administered by the Marine Management Organisation. (Conclusion, Paragraph 9)
Government response summary AI-generated
The government acknowledges the conclusion by confirming it is developing future plans for the Fund from year two onwards, which will establish a broader range of spending options beyond the current FaSS framework through stakeholder engagement and an Expert Advisory Group.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government · verbatim extract
Acknowledged
We are currently developing future plans for the Fund based on engagement with the sector which started in autumn 2025. A broader range of spending options will be established, taking us beyond use of the FaSS. The Government is using engagement with key stakeholders, including the industry and the recently established Expert Advisory Group, to develop priorities for the Fund from year two onwards. The Group brings together interested stakeholders from across the sector, including representatives from the catching sector, environmental non-governmental organisations and universities, and held its first meeting in March 2026.
Read the full response on Parliament ↗