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Reform of the Common Fisheries Policy

Response to European Commission Green Paper

The Environment Agency is a key player in the marine environment in England and Wales and has been actively involved in many aspects of UK marine legislation. The Environment Agency supports reform of the Common Fisheries Policy and recommends:

  • That the needs of the Water Framework Directive in the inshore zone should be taken into account
  • That provisions for the inshore zone are consistent with the ecosystem approach
  • Greater use of controls on fishing effort as against dependence on catch quotas
  • Support for schemes to improve habitat that can enhance fish production and offer opportunities for fisheries diversification – including coastal realignment projects and reducing barriers to migratory fish.

Read our full response