New UK Marine Bill

The Government has set out plans for its Marine Bill, a new framework for the seas that will work towards delivering clean, healthy, safe, productive and biologically diverse oceans and seas. It is asking people and organisations like the Marine Connection what they think of the proposals.

UK seas cover an area three times that of the land, 17 million people live within 10km of the sea, with many more visiting as tourists. Around 40 per cent of the manufacturing industry is based on or near the coast. The bulk of our foreign trade passes through our sea ports, and the sea provides resources as diverse as fish, oil and gas, renewable energy, sand and gravel.

The administrations in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, along with Government departments have to recognise the need to work together for a more coherent approach to the management of all UK marine waters.

Further information on the Marine Bill can be found on DEFRA's website