Marine policy case study: Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009

2006

Defra commissions PML to produce a report “An economic evaluation of UK marine biodiversity” to support and guide the Marine Bill.

 

Initial consultation on the Marine Bill is launched by Defra.

 

2007

The House of Commons Select Committee on Science and Technology launches “Investigating the Oceans” in Plymouth.

 

2008

Defra launches further consultation on the Marine Bill; PML provides significant input and gives evidence to the Parliamentary Committee.

 

Defra seeks comments from PML on its draft document “Our Seas – A Shared Resource” which will be used to underpin the joint Marine Policy Statement provided for in the Marine Bill.

 

2009

The Marine Bill is at Committee stage and further advice and input is requested from PML scientists. Lord Kingsland, the PML Chairman, is heavily engaged in this groundbreaking legislation and significant amendments are made to the Bill. In November the Marine and Coastal Access Bill receives Royal Assent.

 

The Marine Management Organisation is established.

 

2010

Dr Mel Austen of PML is appointed as the Chief Scientific Advisor to the Marine Management Organisation.