SSA CONDEMNS UK GOVERNMENT’S DISGRACEFUL SNUB TO SCOTLAND’S COASTAL COMMUNITIES

SSA Condemns UK Government’s Disgraceful Snub to Scotland’s Coastal Communities

The UK Government has delivered a staggering blow to Scotland’s coastal communities by allocating a mere £28 million of a £360 million UK-wide fisheries fund to Scotland—less than 8% of the total. The Scottish Seafood Association (SSA) condemned the decision as a “disgraceful betrayal” of the people, businesses, and heritage that form the backbone of Scotland’s rural economy. While England receives £304 million, Scotland—home to over 60% of the UK’s fish landings—is handed scraps. This is not just a funding imbalance; it is a political insult.

Scotland’s seafood sector is not a peripheral concern—it is a strategic national asset. From sea to plate, our supply chain sustains thousands of livelihoods, lands world-class produce, and fuels global markets with Scottish excellence. Our sector is vital to rural communities—it is about families, identity, and a legacy of resilience built over generations. Factoring in the concession to the EU with a 12 year roll over, questions if Scotland is on their radar at all.

SSA Chief Executive Jimmy Buchan said:

“The whole of the UK should benefit fairly from taxpayers’ money this is an injustice. I cannot comprehend how UK Ministers can justify this decision. It is nothing short of disgraceful. Scotland’s coastal communities are wholly reliant on the seafood supply chain from landing and processing to export and yet we are treated as insignificant. This is a direct snub to the very people who feed the nation and uphold our global reputation.”

The SSA warns that the UK Government’s actions risk undermining the economic lifeblood of Scotland’s rural regions, where seafood is not just an industry, it is identity, heritage, and hope. The decision to sideline this sector reflects a dangerous disconnect from the realities of coastal life and the strategic importance of fisheries to Scotland’s economy.

“We are not asking for favours,” Buchan continued. “We are demanding recognition, respect, and responsible governance. The UK Government must urgently reconsider its position and engage meaningfully with Scotland’s seafood sector before irreversible damage is done.”

The SSA calls on all Scottish MPs, MSPs, and civic leaders to stand united in defence of our seafood communities and to hold the UK Government accountable for its neglect.

UK Seafood Fund Allocation:

• England: £304 million
• Scotland: £28 million
• Northern Ireland: £18 million
• Wales: £10 million

Image © Seafish