MP Bruce scales up pressure for Marine Bill

2.27.41pm UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 8th Jun 2007

Malcolm Bruce is keeping the pressure on the Government to support a Marine Bill

Malcolm Bruce MP has backed renewed calls for a Marine Bill in the next Queen's Speech.

The marine environment around the UK is coming under increasing pressure from a range of human activities.  With many marine species, including commercial fish populations, in decline, pressure is growing for a Marine Bill to manage human activities at sea.

Speaking after an event in Parliament to raise awareness of the need for a Marine Bill, Mr Bruce added his support to The Wildlife Trusts' campaign, saying:

"I believe we need a Marine Bill urgently to manage and protect our marine environment. At present only a tiny proportion of our seas are protected by law.  As an island nation, we have a responsibility to care for our seas and protect the diverse wildlife that lives there.

"With environmental issues making up a large part of my postbag, I will be keeping up the pressure on the Government and will be writing to Gordon Brown urging him to include a Marine Bill in what will be his first legislative programme as Prime Minister.

"I am delighted to support The Wildlife Trust campaign and will be gathering signatures from constituents throughout Gordon with my own 'Petition Fish' throughout the summer months."

Stephanie Hilborne, Chief Executive of The Wildlife Trusts added:

"I am delighted that Malcolm Bruce MP has shown his support for the Marine Bill.  Like climate change, the destruction of marine wildlife is an urgent global issue and the UK Government must take a lead by protecting our own seas.  We cannot delay marine legislation any longer - the urgency to protect marine biodiversity is unquestionable."