Green light for UK Marine Bill?

After more than eight years campaigning to secure proper legislation for our seas, WWF-UK, the conservation organisation, says that it is “delighted” that the Government has begun to realise its duty to look after our seas for future generations. Dr Simon Walmsley, Head of Marine at WWF-UK said: “WWF welcomes the positive proposals outlined in Gordon Brown’s statement but insists this must lead to a full Marine Bill in the Queen’s Speech The introduction of a Marine Bill is now long overdue. With increasing pressure on our seas, the health of our marine wildlife in decline and the entire marine ecosystem threatened by climate change, we require immediate, strong, effective legislation for our seas.” He notes that a full Marine Bill is vital to sit alongside and complement other crucial bills that are currently passing through Parliament. The Climate Change Bill, Planning Bill, and Energy Bill all have serious implications for our seas and the Marine Bill will form the missing link, helping the UK to meet its renewable energy targets. Walmsley adds: “Our seas are going to be put under further pressure as the Government looks to utilise the best wind, tidal, and wave energy resources in Europe. The draft Marine Bill proposes a new planning system and strategic delivery body for our seas, crucial to balancing the needs of sea users while ensuring a healthy marine environment.” WWF welcomed the publication of a draft Marine Bill in April for pre-legislative scrutiny. However, although the draft bill aims to provide UK-wide coverage, considerable strengthening is necessary to ensure a seamless approach between Westminster and devolved administrations to the future protection and management of UK seas.

WWF now urges the administrations of all four countries to work together to achieve the rapid delivery of this legislation and the means to implement it.