The spiralling fuel prices in the international market have hit European fishing fleets. Angered fishers are blockading ports in several countries.

France and Scotland have initiated a negotiation with the eu for permission to give subsidies or release cash-aid for their ailing fishing sectors. To maintain a level commercial playing field, the European State Aid Rules do not allow member nations to introduce large-scale subsidies. Scotland has established a fuel task force to prepare a fuel efficiency scheme for the fishers, while France has promised to immediately release