Government misses deadline to restrict destructive fishing practices

Labour inherited from the Conservatives a target by the end of 2024 to “remove pressures” on the 181 marine protected areas (MPAs) that cover 40% of England’s waters, by restricting harmful fishing practices such as bottom trawling and dredging. 

A staggering 74% of England’s inshore MPAs still permit one of the most damaging fishing practices.

Clare Brook, chief executive of Blue Marine, said “As this important deadline passes it is time for the present government to make clear what its ambitions are. Continuing delay means we will lose more species and the recovery of our inshore waters will take longer. Is that what this government wants?” 

Read the full article from The Times: https://www.thetimes.com/uk/environment/article/government-misses-deadline-to-restrict-destructive-fishing-practices-fvkq9sj7t