McMillan Welcomes Marine (Scotland) Act

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has congratulated the Scottish Government for Scotland's Marine Bill on receiving Royal Assent.

This Act marks a major turning point in safeguarding the future of Scotland’s seas and laying the foundations for a more simplified marine planning and licensing system.

Mr. McMillan said;

"We are lucky to have some of the most fantastic coastline in the world in Scotland and I’m delighted this Act has now come in to being, safeguarding our seas for future generations.

"The Marine Bill was an issue highly regarded during meets of the Cross Party Group on Recreational Boating and Marine Tourism, which I chair, and I know from our discussions it is an extremely welcome piece of legislation.

"Marine Protected Areas will help us protect important marine habitats and species and the Act ensures that the site selection process is underpinned by sound scientific advice.

"We must now build on modernising our seas, for example, with wind and wave power to develop our fight against climate change.

"Improved planning and licensing will support the development of renewable marine energy. We owe it to future generations to ensure our seas are managed and harvested sustainably.

"Economic growth is vital, but it should be balanced with protection for our stunning marine environment".