← Back to Westminster Hall Debates

World Ocean Day — [Mrs Pauline Latham in the Chair]

08 June 2023

Lead MP

Sally-Ann Hart

Responding Minister

Trudy Harrison

Tags

Climate
Word Count: 9723
Other Contributors: 4

At a Glance

Sally-Ann Hart raised concerns about world ocean day — [mrs pauline latham in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

Hart asks the Government to outline measures taken by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to restore and protect blue carbon habitats. She requests details on funding facilitation for nature-based solutions and support for private sector involvement in ocean protection initiatives.

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
Sally-Ann Hart is concerned about the over-exploitation and pollution of the ocean, which has led to a decline in its health. She highlights issues such as illegal fishing, chemical, plastic, and nutrient pollution, and coastal overdevelopment. The MP also expresses worry about carbon emissions causing ocean warming, acidification, and oxygen loss, impacting biodiversity and livelihoods dependent on marine resources.

Government Response

Trudy Harrison
Government Response
Discussed the Government's commitment to protecting oceans, highlighting progress on environmental improvement plan, marine protected areas, fisheries management plans, and international agreements like the Global Ocean Alliance. Mentioned work on plastic pollution treaty and sustainable ocean economy initiatives.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.