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Protecting Our Oceans

09 June 2025

Proposing MP
Steve Reed Lab Co-op
Streatham and Croydon North
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
View on Parliament.uk -->

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement discusses the UK Government's commitment to protect marine environments through Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and seeks public input on proposed byelaws to restrict bottom trawling.

Action Requested

The Marine Management Organisation is launching a consultation on the third stage of a programme to roll out byelaws that would limit damaging fishing gear in MPAs, covering an additional 42 sites. The Government encourages all stakeholders to participate in this process.

Key Facts

  • The UK has established 181 MPAs covering 40% of English waters.
  • Currently, 60% of English MPAs are protected by byelaws limiting the use of damaging fishing gear.
  • The third stage consultation covers 42 additional MPAs and proposes to restrict bottom trawling over approximately 30,000 square kilometres of sea area.
  • The Government recently announced a £360 million Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund.
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