Annex
We have not commented in detail on the rest
of the questions related to the regulatory impact assessment.
However we would make the general observation that the current
state of the marine environment is so fragile and the challenges
it faces from direct exploitation and wider issues such as climate
change and acidification are so severe that we really have to
do whatever is necessary in line with the Precautionary Principle
to protect the environment. Otherwise we will find that even though
sectors which face initial costs through restraint and licensing
would ultimately lose out through deterioration of the marine
environment.
June 2006
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