Conor Burns urges support for Bournemouth fish and chip shops

The Conservative minister highlighted the challenges those who provide the British staple dish are facing through increased costs.

In a video posted on by his Twitter account, Mr Burns, who represents Bournemouth West, said fish and chip shop operates were being put under financial pressures.

The video showed the politician visiting a number of Bournemouth eateries including Chez Fred, Mias Fish & Chips, Wild Fish & Chips.

“Fish and chips have been a popular staple of the British high street dating as far back as 1860, in fact so popular has fish and chips proven to be to the British consumer that Churchill exempted what he called these 'good companions' from rationing during the Second World War but they are now facing enormous pressure,” said Mr Burns.

Bournemouth MP Conor Burns at Wild Fish & Chips

“The rising cost of oil, the increased cost of fertiliser leading to an increased cost in potatoes, the supply and cost of white fish fillet, the rising cost of energy.

“All of these things are putting pressure on these businesses and may mean that we see some modest price rises as we go to enjoy this British staple.

“I just wanted to say to all of you that as we look at the challenges they’re facing, let’s still use our fish and chip shops across this area to make sure they are there for us at the end of these difficult times as they have been always there for us over the decades.”

Bournemouth MP Conor Burns at Chez Fred

Last month the Daily Echo reported on the concerns of fish and chip shop owners across Dorset over the future of their industry.

The war in Ukraine had disrupted supply chains, with a large proportion of white fish usually coming in from Russian vessels and the majority of crops for sunflower oil being grown in Ukraine.

The National Federation of Fish Friers has campaigned against the decision to increase VAT to 20 per cent.