SWT welcomed today’s announcement from the Cabinet Office that the Scottish Government is to be given more powers to manage the offshore area around Scotland. Marine planning and marine nature conservation between 12 and 200NM are to be added to the devolved portfolio, which already includes fisheries management.

Becky Boyd, SWT’s Marine Policy Officer, said, “We congratulate the Scottish and UK Governments for reaching a negotiated decision on marine planning and nature conservation in advance of the UK and Scotland Marine Bills, expected to become law by 2010. The sea is a dynamic, mobile environment, and it is vital that all UK administrations work closely to build the strong and coherent legislative framework our seas urgently need if they are to recover their health and productivity. It is important, of course, that these additional powers are matched with the resources to make them effective.”

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Clara Govier Tel: 0131 312 4747 

NOTES TO EDITORS:
SWT’s Vision for Scotland’s wildlife, Natural Connections is grounded on an ecosystem approach to nature conservation. To access the Vision document visit http://www.swt.org.uk/publications/swt_publications.asp
SWT is the largest voluntary body working for all the wildlife of Scotland, representing more than 32,000 members who care for wildlife and the environment. SWT seeks to raise public awareness of threatened habitats and species and manages over 120 reserves Scotland-wide. 
SWT receives financial assistance and support from Scottish Natural Heritage.
SWT is a member of The Wildlife Trusts (TWT), a partnership of 47 wildlife trusts across the whole of the UK, the Isle of Man and Alderney. We are working for an environment rich in wildlife for everyone. With 670,000 members, we are the largest UK voluntary organisation dedicated to conserving the full range of the UK’s habitats and species. www.wildlifetrusts.org