An enormous majority of Scots are backing the country's fishing industry amid growing pressures ahead of the general election.

A poll commissioned by the Scottish Fishermen's Federation (SFF) revealed that more than 95%, or 19 in 20, Scots believe it's important that the UK retains control over its fisheries.

Just shy of nine in 10 (89.7%) of people believe that UK-produced food is just as important as UK-produced energy, while 91% agreed that fishing is a key part of the UK's economy.

Elspeth Macdonald, Chief Executive of the SFF, said: “These opinion poll results vindicate the fishing industry’s contention that covering our seas with giant offshore windfarms without any thought being given to food production is wholly counter-productive.

“Fishing is one of the lowest-carbon forms of food production in existence and displacing the catching sector simply places the burden onto more carbon-intensive alternatives.

“It is clear that renewable energy is needed on a greater scale to combat climate change but home-produced climate-smart food is also part of the solution to how we reach net zero."

The poll, carried out by Opinion Matters on behalf of the SFF, surveyed 1,005 Scottish adults between June 3 and June 7.

Last year, the Scottish Government shelved plans for Highly Protected Marine Area's, which would have banned fishing in up to 10% of Scottish waters.

But the threat of additional conservation zones remains.

There are also concerns regarding offshore renewable projects squeezing fishermen out of traditional fishing grounds.

Ms MacDonald added: “As the public has shown, there is strong support for maintaining control over our fisheries. It is crucial that we balance our approach to energy production with the need to preserve our vital fishing industry. Ignoring this balance could lead to the decimation of coastal communities and a significant loss in home-produced food.”

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