I've just finished the final draft (part1/2) of a 100,000 word Sci-Fi novel. In my search for an editor, it appeared many UK editors lacked experience in my genre, or simply didn't have the right profile fit, which I feel is very important. I even enquired to the writers & artist, only to be met with more of the same. I'm now working with an experienced editor in the US who is a perfect fit, and I was actually spoilt for choice over there.
On top of that, many agents and publishing houses here, don't even give my genre the time of day. There are exceptions of course, but why do so many stay away from it?
Are there any other Sci/Fi/Fantasy writers out there who feel we get a raw deal? If so, I'd love to hear from you.
I would say SF in particular is actually having a healthy revival in the UK, both in adult and YA titles. There are more new books and new authors in the genre than in a long while.
But I'm speaking as cover artist, a fan and reader.
I wouldn't say it is frowned upon here, but I do think the genre does (still) have an unfair stigma attached to it, at least in the eyes of some publishers. It is a popular and heavy saturated genre, but because it isn't always mainstream, perhaps some publishers shy away from it, and are afraid of how to market it.
Ultimately to the publisher's loss, if the writer goes down the increasingly popular self-publishing route.