PARLIAMENTARY WRITTEN QUESTION
Fisheries: Coronavirus (13 July 2020)

The fishing industry has faced tremendous challenges during Covid-19. These challenges have varied in nature and severity across the industry. For example, the shellfish industry which relies on hospitality in domestic and export markets was affected particularly severely.

I know from the regular conversations that my Department has been having and continues to have with those in the fishing industry that the UK Government’s support has been crucial whether it be through employment support or through campaigns to promote Scottish produce domestically and abroad.

The Scottish fishing industry has demonstrated incredible resilience and creativity in its response to the pandemic. Now, we must look towards the future and the opportunities that can be seized from leaving the Common Fisheries Policy and becoming an independent coastal state.