Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what plans she has to provide financial compensation to the recreational charter boat sector following the implementation of the three-fish recreational pollack bag limit.

The latest scientific advice from ICES indicates pollack remains vulnerable and recreational fishing accounts for a significant share of total removals. It is therefore important, and fair, that all fishers play their part in transitioning towards a sustainable fishery. The three‑fish recreational bag limit supports the long‑term recovery of the stock while continuing to allow recreational fishers to target and retain pollack.

Defra continues to support the development of evidence. The recently re-launched Fisheries and Seafood Scheme, funded from the Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund, can support partnership projects between fishers and scientists, which could include long-term data collection and research on pollack fisheries. Cefas is also working with the recreational sector to strengthen participation and governance of the Sea Angling Diaries to improve the evidence base.

Defra has no plans to provide financial compensation. Social and economic impacts are considered as part of the impact assessment process for the Statutory Instrument introducing the measure, including impacts across all affected parts of the sector.