The Cornish Fish Producers Organisation called for immediate UK Government action as red-diesel prices climbing well above £1 ($1.32) per litre threaten the viability of the domestic fishing fleet.
While British crews absorb rising expenses without state aid, the European Union's emergency framework remains available until the end of 2026, allowing member states to compensate their fleets for exceptional energy costs.
This policy discrepancy allows EU vessels receiving fuel assistance to fish in UK waters under a 12-year access agreement granted last year, leaving British boats to meet additional costs alone.
“The government cannot stand by while British fishing businesses are placed at such a serious competitive disadvantage,” noted Paul Trebilcock, Managing Director at W Stevenson and Sons and CFPO Chairman.
Although ministers previously announced a £360 million fishing and coastal growth fund spread over 12 years, the CFPO stated that the long-term commitment cannot substitute for urgent operational relief.
“Fuel is one of the biggest operating costs for a fishing vessel, and boats cannot keep absorbing these increases,” said Chris Ranford, Chief Executive Officer of the CFPO.
CFPO research indicates that each fisherman supports around 15 additional jobs across Cornwall's seafood economy, putting processors, harbours and merchants at risk if boats are forced to tie up.
The group urged the UK Government to treat fuel costs as an urgent food-security, employment and coastal-economy issue by introducing a time-limited support package for the fishing fleet.
