Marine Protection Area proposals could bring on 'second Highland Clearances' says MP Jamie Stone
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In a question to the Prime Minister, far north Liberal MP, Jamie Stone, has raised concerns over the Scottish Government's plans to designate 10 per cent of Scottish waters as Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs).
Mr Stone called on the Prime Minister to work together with the Scottish Government to come up with conservation proposals that have the support of fishing communities.
Commenting, Mr Stone said: "To hear that the impact of these proposals could cause something of a second Highland Clearances is extremely concerning. The far north is unique to live and work in, and this arbitrary, rigid, and one–size–fits–all approach by the Scottish Government flies in the face of the hard work and determination of crofters and fishermen across the Highlands and Islands.
"The UK and Scottish Governments must work together with coastal and island communities to come up with solutions that properly protect marine environments and ensure sustainable management going forward. These proposals should be led by proportional and evidence–based policy, not imposed by a top–down approach.
"The fishing industry cares about our seas. It relies on sustainable catches. Who better to consult than the people whose livelihoods and futures depend on healthy seas?"
In response, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: "The Honourable Gentleman makes an excellent point and he is a passionate champion, as he should be, for his local fishing communities.
"He is right to raise the concerns that have been raised, not just by them but by members of the SNP's own party about the potentially damaging impact of their plans to introduce the Highly Protected Marine Areas in the way that they are.
"I would encourage the SNP Government to continue working with the Scottish fishing industry and coastal communities to understand their concerns and, as we've seen them recently U-turn on other poorly thought-out decisions, hopefully they can re-look at this one too.
