A fishing ban at Lindisfarne has been opposed by councillors, with claims by one it would turn it “into a museum”, the BBC has reported. The government is exploring creating a Highly Protected Marine Area (HPMA) which would see commercial and recreational fishing halted.   Conservative-led Northumberland County Council heard this week such a move would “devastate” the […]

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I came across this news piece on the NFFO website whilst looking for their views on the Greenpeace Dogger bank action (nothing yet). It reminded me of the Yes Minister episode where Sir Humphrey explains to the Minister how you discredit a report. (Interestingly interspersed with Australian politicians arguing why they shouldn’t act on climate […]

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Consultation details Defra ‘As part of the UK government’s commitment to leave the environment in a better state than we inherited it, an independent review of Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs) – which represent the upper end of environmental protection – was publicly launched on the 8 June 2019. The 6 month review, led by ex-fisheries Minister Richard […]

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Who is blocking Highly Protected Marine Areas? Dr Jean-Luc Solandt Principal Specialist, Marine Protected Areas, Marine Conservation Society 01989 561594 / 07793 118387   www.mcsuk.org Dr Sue Gubbay, Independent Marine Consultant Dr Bob Earll, Communications and Management for Sustainability, Dear Mr Gove, This blog is prompted by the eventual release of a research assessment of HPMAs […]

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