ALISON AUSTIN OBE APPOINTED TO LEAD SEAFOOD 2040 STRATEGY

Alison Austin OBE appointed to lead Seafood 2040 – A Strategic Framework for England sets out a vision for the seafood supply chain

The seafood supply chain in England is working to create a sustainable and thriving future through an ambitious plan. 

Seafood 2040 – A Strategic Framework for England (SF2040) identifies actions for how the industry can grow to the recommended consumption level of two servings of fish per person per week, while ensuring continued sustainability of supply in both the wild caught and aquaculture sectors.

A Seafood Industry Leadership Group is to be set up to lead on delivery of the plan which is to be chaired by independent Seafish Board member Alison Austin. The group will bring all sectors of the seafood industry together to lead and support the work set out in the Seafood 2040 strategy and to hold all partners to account for its delivery.

Commenting on her appointment as Chair, Alison Austin said:

“I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed as the Chair of the Seafood Industry Leadership Group.   I believe we are in a strong position now to drive forward the 25 recommendations within the Seafood 2040, a Strategic Framework for England document.   

“It was heartening to see Seafood 2040 mentioned in the recent Defra consultation document, “Sustainable Fisheries for future generations” as a positive outcome of partnership working across the seafood value chain.   I look forward to forming the Seafood Industry Leadership Group and working to create a thriving industry as well as encouraging consumption of fantastic, sustainable seafood. “

George Eustice, Minister of State for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food said: 

“Alison’s proven commitment, passion and commercial expertise will stand her in good stead for delivering the vision of the Seafood 2040 project and I would like to congratulate her on this new role.

“As we highlighted in our recently published fisheries white paper, Seafood 2040 will play an important part in supporting the long-term sustainable growth and future economic success of the seafood chain in England.”

The full strategy is available to view on the Seafish website.