Clause 221
Marine and Coastal Access Bill [Lords]
4:45 pm
Huw Irranca-Davies (Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Marine and Natural Environment), Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs; Ogmore, Labour)
Yes, I do share those concerns, and I have given the matter considerable thought. The phrase “as it considers appropriate” in clause 221(2) takes us to the meat of this debate. I agree with my hon. Friend that the obligation to pay compensation to an owner or occupier of any fishery that is injuriously affected by a fisheries byelaw has at times discouraged the EA from proposing byelaws that are necessary for the conservation of fish stocks. Let me give my hon. Friend some assurance by stating quite clearly that I consider that compensation should not be paid in circumstances in which the byelaw in question was made for the express purpose of conserving fish stocks, as increases in stocks will ultimately benefit fishery owners. I hope that gives him the reassurance that he rightfully seeks on this issue, because we want the EA to make the right decisions where appropriate in such circumstances.