We heard a number of examples of the UK being cited as a leader internationally when it comes to marine mammal welfare and conservation. Given that this is an issue which transcends national borders, it is vital that the UK seeks to maximise its soft power in this arena. A key part of this is leading by example. We recommend that the Government accelerates action in relation to protected areas in UK waters, such that all such designated areas, including HPMAs, have proper management plans in ...

We heard a number of examples of the UK being cited as a leader internationally when it comes to marine mammal welfare and conservation. Given that this is an issue which transcends national borders, it is vital that the UK seeks to maximise its soft power in this arena. A key part of this is leading by example. We recommend that the Government accelerates action in relation to protected areas in UK waters, such that all such designated areas, including HPMAs, have proper management plans in place by the end of 2023. We also urge the Government to raise issues of marine mammal welfare with those countries who still engage in hunting, such as Type: recommendation | Number: 10 | Paragraph: 57 | Response status: not_accepted Government response: The government welcomes the suggestion for enhancing action on protected areas in UK waters but does not agree to the Committee’s proposed timeline. Activity within MPAs in English waters is regulated through the planning and marine licensing re