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5 Dec 2007 : Column 1277W—continued


Marine Biodiversity Liaison Group

Bill Wiggin: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what he expects to be the membership composition of the Marine Biodiversity Liaison Group; and if he will make a statement. [170886]

Jonathan Shaw: I am not aware of any group called the Marine Biodiversity Liaison Group. However, DEFRA has set up a Marine Biodiversity Stakeholder Group which provides a forum for discussion between DEFRA and its stakeholders. The group’s purpose is to provide governmental and non-governmental stakeholders with periodic updates of progress on marine biodiversity policy; all present are given the opportunity to ask questions and contribute to policy development.

Membership of the group is broad and flexible and includes representatives from: Government, the devolved administrations, Government agencies, non-government organisations (for example, the Wildlife Trusts), academic organisations (for example, the Marine Biological Association), marine industry sectors (such as the British Ports Association) and marine recreational sectors (for example the Royal Yachting Association).

Planning Permission

Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many new developments went ahead against Environment Agency advice in 2006-07. [169853]

Mr. Woolas: In 2006-07, 110 planning applications were granted against Environment Agency advice. It is not known how many of these proposals have been implemented, as planning permission remains valid for a period of three years before commencement is required.

In this period, local planning authorities reported back to the Agency on the outcome of its objections in 57 per cent. of cases. Only 4 per cent. of these decisions went against the Agency’s advice.

Seas and Oceans: Environment Protection

Bill Wiggin: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs which sites he has designated marine protection areas; and if he will make a statement. [170889]


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Jonathan Shaw: A range of current legislative measures provide protection to important marine species and habitats at key sites. We currently have 151 marine protected areas in UK inshore waters (within 12 nautical miles), which include:

The following list provides the names of these sites.

Special protection areas with marine components in UK waters


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Special areas of conservation with marine components in UK waters


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Marine nature reserves in UK waters

Bill Wiggin: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when he expects to bring forward a Marine Bill. [170927]

Jonathan Shaw: I refer the hon. Member to the answer given on 21 November 2007, Official Report, column 868W.

Bill Wiggin: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when he expects the Marine Strategy Directive to be implemented. [170929]


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Jonathan Shaw: The Marine Strategy Directive is currently being negotiated. Implementation will consist of:

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