Carmichael questions UK ministers on lessons from SNP-Green HPMA plans

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has today questioned UK government ministers and officials on future plans for Highly Protect Marine Areas (HPMAs) and their consultation with fishing organisations. Speaking as a guest member of the Environmental Audit Committee during a session on governing the marine environment, Mr Carmichael asked a range of questions on HPMAs, engagement with the fishing industry and the relationship of the Crown Estate to fishing communities.

Mr Carmichael also asked officials to reflect on the experience of the SNP-Green coalition in imposing and then withdrawing HPMA proposals following strong local opposition in coastal communities.

Responding, the Minister for Water and Flooding Emma Harding MP said:

“From my understanding of that situation – and I respect you are closer to it than I am – one of the really important things is talking to the local community, and engaging thoroughly with the local community so that when we are making decisions around prioritisation, and where you are going to put things, that you have those conversations, and have community support.

Mr Carmichael responded:

“Making sure that while at the end of the day nobody will get everything that they want, everybody has to feel that they have had a fair crack of the whip. Good luck with that.”

Reacting after the session, Mr Carmichael added:

“If the UK government comes back with new proposals for HPMAs in the future they would be wise to learn from the cackhanded approach taken by the SNP-Green coalition in Holyrood. The lesson surely has to be that marine management has to be done in partnership with coastal and island communities – not imposed from on high.”