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The UK Government’s decision to close English and Scottish North Sea waters to sandeel fishing in March 2024—aimed to protect vulnerable marine life—was largely upheld by the independent permanent court of arbitration tribunal in the Hague. The ruling recognises the UK’s science-led, precautionary approach was lawful and environmentally justified.
Charles Clover, Co-founder and Senior Advisor said: “This is a big win for conservation because for the first time in dealings between the UK and the EU we have a confirmation by a tribunal on 4 out of 5 legal points that environmental law beats narrow fisheries interests. This ruling brings the fishing industry into line with other activities. The tribunal has vindicated the UK’s precautionary, science-based approach. We welcome its decision and we are delighted that fishing does not have to resume in the sandeel fishing areas while the one remaining point about the ban in English waters is sorted out. This will continue to have huge benefits for seabirds and fish as well as dolphins, whales and porpoises.”
Blue Marine took part in the legal proceedings by filing an amicus curiae brief in support of the UK claims and we have been closely monitoring the dispute throughout the proceedings.
You can read the UK Government response here.
