Fishermen in the South Hams small fleets could go out of business because of the soaring cost of red diesel which is used to fuel their boats.

The cost of a litre has roughly doubled in the past six months due to the ongoing war in Iran and restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz.

Executive Officer of South Devon and Channel Shell fishermen Ltd Beshlie Pool explained:

“As everyone knows, fuel has significantly increased in price as a result of geopolitics.

“This affects the local fishing fleet in terms of increased costs – both for actual fishing and costs being passed on by associated activities such as haulage.

“Fuel across our local area is close to double what it was.

“This means that business continuity – and profitability - is under threat.

“Some vessels in the southwest fleet are tying up, as they can no longer make it work. This affects local communities, jobs, and provision of marine proteins.”

In the EU some governments are providing subsidies of up to 85 per cent of the increase in red diesel prices but that is not the case here.

Beshlie says it’s not a good time to be a fisherman: “The government are offering no help, despite the UK major competitor nations receiving fuel aid from their governments.

“This issue is much more significant for the trawl fleets, who tow heavy gear.”

In May 2025, former Prime Minister Keir Starmer agreed to a 12-year framework granting EU boats continued access to UK waters without increasing overall catch volumes for EU vessels.

A leaked joint statement ahead of upcoming November 2026 talks confirmed plans to maintain full reciprocal access through 2038.

The EU Council approved annual fishing opportunities for 95 jointly managed stocks under the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement, integrating scientific advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES).

The UK's 2026 quota framework includes shared pelagic stocks like mackerel (which accounts for the vast majority of additional quota tonnage), alongside regional allocations such as bluefin tuna and NAFO cod.