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<p>We welcome the publication of the review into Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs),
which was published on 8 June 2020 and is available at <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/highly-protected-marine-areas-hpmas-review-2019"
target="_blank">https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/highly-protected-marine-areas-hpmas-review-2019</a>.
I am grateful to Richard Benyon and the advisory panel for their work. We will consider
Richard Benyon's report and issue a formal response to him in due course, recognising
our continued priority to support the cross-Government response to Covid-19. From
there on, we have an opportunity to develop a programme of work to bring forward highly
protected areas for the first time in English waters. We would of course consult widely
with the public and stakeholders, including fishers, before any decision to designate
an HPMA.</p><p>A healthy and sustainable fishing industry in the long-term is dependent
on a healthy marine environment, and the Fisheries Bill creates a robust framework
for managing our fisheries sustainably in the future. The panel has concluded that
HPMA can be a valuable tool to help deliver healthy seas. However, we recognise that
some members of the fisheries community may be concerned by the impact of the Review’s
recommendations on their livelihoods. The report suggests several ways in which government
can reduce the impact on the fishing industry, for example by siting protected areas
within existing protected areas and be adopting early, continuous engagement with
all stakeholders when considering the location for an HPMA. Extensive consultation
will take place before any decisions are made.</p>
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