PLAID Cymru MS for Dwyfor Meirionnydd, Mabon ap Gwynfor, says immediate support is required to safeguard the future viability of Welsh fish and chip shops.

Amid soaring energy prices, supply chain problems and the rising cost of oil, the MS visited the award-winning Paddy’s Plaice fish and chips restaurant in Criccieth.

There, he heard about the challenges facing this most traditional of Welsh high street food outlets, and why the sector hopes quality produce and competitive pricing will help sustain the industry.

Soaring energy prices and the war in Ukraine is having a substantial impact on the sector.

The UK currently imports large quantities of white fish from Russia and sunflower oil from Ukrainian fields, with supplies of both substantially hit by the ongoing war.

Fish and chip shops are hopeful that the offering of simple, great food combined with affordability and sustained footfall will help the sector weather the cost of living crisis this winter.

Mr ap Gwynfor said: “The traditional Welsh Chippy, like many others in the hospitality sector, is facing a particularly bleak situation.

“Their costs have soared exponentially, yet they cannot pass all of those increases on to their customers - forcing many to absorb those increases at great personal cost to their businesses.

“Chip shops by nature are heavy users of energy, with several friers and other equipment in constant use to prepare food.

“The soaring cost of energy is putting huge pressure on the sector, with many now weighing up their future.  

“We are witnessing the potential decline of a true Welsh institution and an affordable, much-loved family meal.

“The cost-of-living crisis is threatening one of our favourite meals and the survival of hardworking family-run chippies across the country.

“The UK government has so far done nothing to help shield businesses from this unprecedented cost-of-living crisis.

“What we should be seeing is a much clearer commitment to protecting households and businesses from the current crisis.

“Small, high-street outlets like the local fish and chip shop are bearing the brunt of this crisis.

“It is incumbent on both the Westminster and Welsh Government to do all they can to shield businesses from the worst of this crisis.

“So far, very little help has materialised.

'The Welsh government has the ability to vary taxes slightly, and we should be using those powers to bring in money to the Welsh Treasury to help those most in need and mitigate against the worst of this winter’s crisis.

“As a nation of fish and chip lovers, we must also do our bit and support our local chippy wherever we can so that it remains a staple of our dining tables for generations to come.”

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Patrick Watson of Paddy’s Plaice, Criccieth, said: “There is no denying that the fish and chips sector faces a very difficult time right now.

“But at Paddy’s Plaice, we pride ourselves on serving the best food at the most competitive prices.

“Our potatoes are locally sourced from Pen Llŷn, and our packaging is all biodegradable – supporting the local community and the planet at the same time.

“We would like to expand our offering once the circumstances are more favourable so that more people can enjoy what we have to offer.

“But the reality is that small businesses need help right now, and I hope the both the UK and Welsh Governments step in to support those facing such difficult circumstances.”