Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, how many projects to support fishermen in selling their catch to local communities have been funded by the Government's fisheries support scheme.

The £1 million Direct Seafood Supply Scheme is due to be launched during this week, commencing with a call for projects. Applicants will have time to complete their bids for grants, which will be judged by a panel including fishing industry representatives. It is anticipated that decisions will be made and applicants informed from May 15.