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Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Bill 2026-02-02
02 February 2026
Lead MP
Seema Malhotra
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
ClimateNorthern IrelandScotland
Other Contributors: 9
At a Glance
Seema Malhotra raised concerns about biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction bill 2026-02-02 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The BBNJ Bill has returned for consideration of Lords amendments, which are designed to support effective implementation across the UK while respecting devolution. The bill will strengthen global protection of biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction and help ensure fair sharing of benefits from marine genetic resources. Amendments include giving Scottish and Northern Ireland Ministers concurrent powers to make regulations within their devolved competence.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Concerned about the need for devolved Administrations, particularly in Northern Ireland, to enshrine legislation acknowledging fishing industry reliance on current areas. Emphasises that if Northern Irish Assembly does not do this, local fishing organisations will be at a disadvantage.
Jim Allister
TUV
North Antrim
Questions the nature of regulations anticipated by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland as a result of the Bill, focusing on international waters management.
Toby Perkins
Lab
Chesterfield
Welcomed the Bill as vital legislation to protect marine environments beyond national jurisdiction. Cited the Government's 'Nature security assessment' highlighting risks of ecosystem collapse and their impact on UK national security and prosperity. Supported multilateral cooperation and expressed hope for continued international funding and efforts towards climate finance.
Roz Savage
LD
South Cotswolds
Strongly welcomed the Bill, emphasising its importance in meeting global biodiversity targets by protecting 30% of oceans by 2030. Noted the current low level of high seas protection and highlighted the need for stricter enforcement on plastic pollution, illegal fishing, and human rights at sea. Advocated for a comprehensive implementation plan including funding, technology transfers, and strengthening domestic maritime practices.
Sarah Champion
Lab
Rotherham
As chair of the all-party parliamentary group for the ocean, expressed delight in the Bill's progress but sought specific information on timelines for ratification ahead of the first ocean COP. Asked to meet with the Minister to discuss these details.
Lady Boycott
Lib Dem
Unknown Constituency
Amended the Bill to ensure 'polluter pays' and precautionary principles must be applied by UK authorities when exercising powers or duties under the Bill relating to high seas. Concerns remain that without statutory requirements in the Bill, these principles will not extend beyond the UK’s jurisdiction.
Seema Malhotra
Lab
Rotherham
Acknowledged concerns about the amendment and emphasised ongoing discussions with devolved Governments to ensure watertight provisions. Stressed the importance of moving quickly to have a seat at international tables for MPA decisions, while ensuring UK-wide consistency in implementing environmental impact assessments.
Snowden
Lab
Fylde
Asked about legislative consent motions and potential differences in Scottish approach to implementation. Requested assurance that collaborative work would continue with a consistent approach towards the Bill's requirements.
Steve Race
Lab
Exeter
Welcomed Government commitment to global leadership on ocean protection but expressed concern about bottom trawling practices within marine protected zones. Asked for steps being taken by the government to regulate or ban this destructive fishing practice.
Government Response
Explained that Lords amendments aim to support effective implementation across UK while respecting devolution settlements. Provides details on specific amendments such as those concerning Scottish Ministers and Northern Ireland Department’s powers to make regulations, consultation duties, environmental impact assessment regulations, and procedural changes.
Shadow Response
Mr Andrew Snowden
Shadow Response
Recognises the Bill's importance but raises questions about late-stage amendments tabled by Government. Questions whether these amendments breach legislative consent territory and what would happen if devolved Ministers did not approve measures during consultation. Asked about legislative consent motions and potential differences in Scottish approach to implementation. Requested assurance that collaborative work would continue with a consistent approach towards the Bill's requirements.
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Assessment & feedback
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