see http://www.mfa.gov.uk/statistics/ukseafish.htm for full report.
2007 “ Marine and Fisheries Agency, UK Sea Fishery Statistics 2006.
Overview of UK Fishing Industry.
Comments regarding the UK fishing Fleet and a brief analysis of report from DEFRA by Brendan Kerr of Natural Living Assets.
In 2006 the UK industry had 6372 fishing vessels. This is a 21% reduction since 1996. (8073)
4896 vessels are less than 10 Meter
1476 vessels are over 10 meters
Proportionately the biggest % cut has come from the over 10 Meter fleet (40 %)
Whilst the under 10 Meter fleet has been cut by 13%.
Socio economic impact
The question I ask is which sector of the UK fishing fleet has the largest socio economic impact.
The economic impact in using a pure financial accounting system is straightforward
and is measure of the accounting value of stocks landed.
Communities, sustainability and socio economic value
It obvious to most people and well reported that there is a general decline in the realised market for fish. This is at a time when the demand for fish is strong and where there a real opportunities to ensure enhanced market value for fish. However the reason for the decline is supply. The resource has been diminished and reduced in total value. The number of fishermen employed has declined along with the apparent reductions in fish socks.
Fishermen employed
7116 in England and Wales 29 % decrease in 10 years
5205 in Scotland 36 % decrease in 10 years
613 in Northern Ireland 36 % decrease in 10 years
20% of fishermen part time
Efficiency in Scotland
Scotland has a higher market share of the UK market place but it is notable that Scotland’s fleet is smaller proportionately for catch returns.
Scotland landed 62% of the Quantity of fish from UK with 41% of the fleet.
The total UK market value of £610 Million: compared to 2005 there was an increase in value of 7% whilst there was a reduction in Quantity by 13%.
10 years ago the catch was about worth about £ 600 million but the catch was 50% greater quantity wise than it was in 2006.
(Going in the right direction re value)
Most stocks are well down re catches. Blue whiting catches fluctuate wildly.
A reflection of the demand for fishmeal market re aquaculture
In 2006 2100 tonnes of Cod landed 26% the level in 1996
In 2006 40000tonnes of haddock 44% the level of 1996
Blue whiting increase from 14 to 82000 tonnes
Herring down
Mackerel down slightly
Shellfish notably prawns up.
Sustainability of UK market place
This report provides a very useful analysis of the UK market but fails to provide the answers about sustainability. Need comparisons with other countries to identify trends there to get a bigger picture view of the impact on stocks interdependently. Points to the efficiencies or other wise of the UK market place. Need to put into perspective.
Sustainability, Interdependence, Fairness, communication and competitive analysis are critical. Need also to consider form a socio economic viewpoint.
There are three main issues
- Competitiveness of UK industry vs rest of Europe/ Globe
- The limits of available renewable resource. Ie Fish stocks
- Fairness, equity, greater good within European, Global Market place.
Brendan Kerr
Natural Living Assets