Marine Science Policy UK: new parliamentary inquiry reports
The UK House of Commons Science and Technology Committee has published the report of its inquiry into Marine Science. Selected conclusions and recommendations:
- the current UK Marine Science Strategy 2010-2025 should be supported by an implementation plan with clear goals and outcomes: the Marine Science Coordination Committee (MSCC) needs review and development.
- NERC needs to ensure adequate support for marine science as part of its responsibilities for national capacity
- For Marine Conservation Zones (MCZ): use of scientific evidence; management measure; and consultation processes all need clarity, development and improvement. The committee recommends clarification of policy goals and commitment.
- An action plan for long-term monitoring is needed, led by the MSCC and involving the government's Chief Scientific Adviser
- Potential for robotics and autonomous underwater vechicles for monitoring and data collection is highlighted.