Wednesday 14 May 2008

"We welcome the positive proposals made in Gordon Brown's statement today, but this must lead to a full Marine Bill in the Queen's Speech," said Dr Simon Walmsley, head of WWF-UK's marine programme. "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."

A full Marine Bill is vital to 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. The Marine Bill will form the missing link, helping the UK to meet its renewable energy targets.

Dr Walmsley added: "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. However, although the draft bill aims to provide UK-wide coverage, it must be considerably strengthened 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 in the UK to work together to achieve the rapid delivery of this legislation and the means to implement it.