Ocean and Coastal Futures (OCF) convened a live online roundtable event which provided the opportunity to debate the potential priorities for the new Government. The UK general election takes place on 4th July and there will be a new Government in 2024, whatever the colour.
Panellists highlighted what they would like to see from a new government and how this could drive positive change for ocean and coastal management.
The panel session brought together leading thinkers from the private sector, environmental NGOs and society to listen, learn and debate the critical ocean and coastal issues that face the country. It was an opportunity to consider what difference the general election result will make to how we manage our seas.
Watch the full recording of the panel debate here.
The Panel
The live online panel discussion was chaired by Prof. Dickon Howell, a Director of Ocean and Coastal Futures and Howell Marine Consulting. The panellists were:
- Katie-jo Luxton,Global Conservation Director, RSPB
- Peter Barham, Chair, Seabed User and Developer Group
- Benj Sykes, Vice President, Head of Environment, Consenting and External Affairs at Ørsted / Industry Sponsor, Offshore Wind Industry Council
- Beccy MacDonald-Lofts, the Lead Officer of the Local Government Association Coastal Special Interest Group
- Rob Clark, Chief Officer, Association of Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities
Marine and coastal management
Discussion focussed on some of the potential ocean and coastal priorities for a new UK Government within these topics:
- Nature restoration and conservation
- Delivering net zero offshore
- Sustainable fisheries; and
- Thriving coastal communities