News Date: Monday 11th June 2007
Tim scales up pressure for Marine Bill
East Worthing and Shoreham MP Tim Loughton is supporting The Wildlife Trusts' call for a Marine Bill in the next Queen's Speech. Tim has shown his support by signing their 'Petition Fish'1 at an event in the House of Commons. Like climate change, the destruction of marine wildlife is an urgent global issue and Tim is urging the UK Government to take a lead in protecting our seas.
The Wildlife Trusts comments that we cannot delay marine legislation any longer and that the urgency to protect marine biodiversity is unquestionable. They comment that the 2007 Queen's Speech must include a commitment to a Marine Bill in the next parliamentary session.
Tim commented:
"I believe we need a Marine Bill urgently. At present less than 0.001% of our seas are protected by law. As an island nation, we have a responsibility to care for our seas and protect the wildlife that lives there, from dolphins to corals and starfish. I will do what I can to keep up the pressure on the Government for a Marine Bill to be included in the Queen's Speech this autumn.
"Throughout the summer The Wildlife Trusts will be taking their 'Petition Fish' to around the country so that the public can also sign scales to show their support. I recommend that constituents who share my concerns visit www.wildlifetrusts.org to find out more about the petition."
Ends
Notes to Editors
1. The 'Petition Fish' are an innovative way of gathering petition signatures. The fish are large, brightly coloured, plastic cut-outs, representing four charismatic or endangered UK fish (cod, triggerfish, wrasse and plaice). To support the petition, you sign a silver or gold self-adhesive scale and attach it to the fish.
2. The Marine Bill White Paper proposes the following:
- A new system of marine planning;
- A more efficient and transparent system for licensing marine activities;
- A Marine Management Organisation with wide-ranging functions;
- New mechanisms for conserving marine wildlife;
- Modernised inshore fisheries management.
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