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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, which companies were granted additional quota through the quota application mechanism in 2025; and what (a) environmental, (b) social and (c) economic outcomes are expected from each.

In 2025, a total of 8,658.8 tonnes of additional quota was awarded to fish producer organisations as part of the quota application mechanism trial (QAM). Applications were based on an environmental, social, and economic scoring criteria. Eastern England Fish Producers Organisation was awarded 3144.3 tonnes, and Humberside Fish Producers’ Organisation was awarded 5225 tonnes. The remaining tonnage was allocated to non-sectoral fishers, across 16 non-sectoral vessels.

Some of the environmental, social and economic benefits being rewarded include:

• investments in improved fishing gear, reducing environmental impacts while enhancing selectivity to minimise unwanted catches;

• acoustic deterrents to help protect vulnerable marine wildlife by preventing accidental entanglement in fishing gear;
• employment of local crew, strengthening coastal communities by providing sustainable livelihoods and preserving traditional fishing heritage;
• and vessel upgrades focused on crew safety and welfare to ensure that fishing remains a viable career with improved working conditions.

Across all the successful applicants, 217 commitments were made. Defra will publish an update on the Quota Application Mechanism trial later this year.