Bycatch and pulse fishing

Many constituents have contacted me regarding the protection of dolphins, whales and other marine species as bycatch (‘accidentally’ being caught) by certain methods of commercial fishing.

I share your concern that the proposals presented to the European Parliament do not contain sufficient measures to protect these animals from entanglement – and in some cases death – in fishing gear.

Labour MEPs will be supporting amendments to the proposal in the vote, which will significantly strengthen protections for cetaceans, and aim to ensure a reduction in bycatch of them.

We are also strongly opposed to lifting the restrictions on pulse fishing. For more information on this issue, please see this article on my blog.