LIB DEMS SEEK CABINET SUPPORT FOR MOTION ON MARINE BILL

11.42.53am GMT Tue 11th Dec 2007

A Liberal Democrat sponsored motion criticising the Government for not including a Marine Bill in the Queen's Speech comes before Torbay Council's Conservative Cabinet tonight (11th December).

The motion, proposed by Deputy Leader Councillor Ian Doggett and Group Chairman Councillor Ruth Pentney, says:

Torbay Council notes that the Government have failed to include a Marine Bill in the Queen's speech.

Having recently attained Geopark Status, this Council is acutely aware of its responsibilities towards the Marine environment.

Torbay Council notes that many livelihoods (including in Torbay) and a vital eco system depends on the sea.

This Council feels strongly that legislation is urgently needed in this area to protect the threatened environment around our shores.

This Council feels that it is important to have a clear authority to reconcile fishery, tourism, conservation, exploration and renewable energy interests.

Torbay Council resolves that the Chief Executive should write to the Rt. Hon. Hillary Benn MP (Minister for the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) outlining the Council's view and urging them to bring forward a Marine Bill as soon as possible.

Local MP Adrian Sanders has also tabled an Early Day Motion in Parliament on the protection of reefs in Lyme Bay.

Councillor Darling, the Liberal Democrat Group Leader, says:

"Torbay is dependent on the sea for many reasons - tourism and fishing are just two. There is cross-party support for a Marine Bill in Parliament, so I hope that the Mayor will put the environment at the heart of his decision making and give his Cabinet's support to this motion on tonight.

With local MP Adrian Sanders tabling an Early Day Motion on a similar topic, this is an opportunity for the Council to work with its MP."