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<p>The increasing cost of fuel is affecting a wide range of sectors including the
fishing industry. Our primary focus is on analysing how the UK fleet is being affected
by fuel and fish prices. Defra Ministers and officials are working with colleagues
across government, along with a wide range of stakeholders, and are closely monitoring
the situation.</p><p> </p><p>The Government has shown long term commitment to the
sector and will continue to do so in the future. As part of this long term commitment
we are not planning to repurpose funds to mitigate the impacts of high fuel prices.
We consider this is a cross cutting issue, and so are liaising with colleagues across
government to determine the longer-term impacts and any mitigating actions.</p><p>
</p><p>Defra will continue to support the sector through the £100 million UK Seafood
Fund, which as one of its main objectives seeks to increase the sustainability of
the sector, including through investing in the transition to renewable energy.</p><p>
</p><p>Defra is also making £32.7 million in annual funding available across all four
nations of the UK which last year enabled grant schemes to be opened in England, Scotland
and Northern Ireland, benefiting hundreds of UK businesses. The grant scheme for England,
the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme, delivers investment to safeguard the long-term sustainability,
resilience and prosperity of the seafood sector.</p><p> </p><p>In recognition of the
challenges in the maritime sector, including the fishing industry, in the 2022 Spring
Budget the Chancellor overturned the 2020 announcement to remove the red diesel entitlement
for commercial boat operators, meaning the industry can continue to use red diesel,
in addition to the Marine Voyages Relief, which gives 100% relief on fuel duty costs.</p><p>
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