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Written question asked by Andrew George (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 15 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 17 June 2026. It was answered by Mary Creagh (Labour) on Thursday, 25 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Fishing Gear: Waste Disposal

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what discussions her Department has had with a) port and harbour authorities, b) fishers, and c) producers on free disposal facilities for end-of-life fishing gear waste in ports and harbours.

Answer

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) has been assessed, including through a study commissioned by Defra and the devolved governments, available here, which indicated EPR could be a complex and costly intervention.

Defra officials have previously engaged industry stakeholders and work closely with devolved governments, with discussions covering end-of-life fishing gear management in ports and harbours, as well as wider marine litter issues in line with the Joint Fisheries Statement.

The UK is committed to working with international partners to agree a new global treaty to end plastic pollution, including provisions addressing fishing and aquaculture gear across its full lifecycle.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
9502
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Fishing gear Ports Waste disposal
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk