Whilst I wouldn’t usually cover the individual responses to consultations this response is exceptional and the combined Links are to be congratulated on their co-ordinated efforts. The four country based Wildlife & Countryside Link organisations have combined forces to produce a comprehensive 61 page report covering all the descriptors covered by the MSFD. They set out not only their response to Defra proposals but also pragmatic suggestions on new measures that are needed to effect the step change in environmental status that the MSFD requires by 2020. As such this document is likely to provide a valuable reference on the Directive and a benchmark for many organisations working on the Directive both in UK and abroad. It has been no secret that the last Government have sought to maintain the status quo in relation to the measures proposed – this response highlights what might be done to achieve greater change. The response to the consultation will provide an early test of the green credentials and commitment of a new Government.

To read further click here.

http://www.wcl.org.uk/docs/Joint%20Links%20MSFD%20POM%20consultation%20response%20April%202015.pdf