Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Bill 2024-26


make provision for and in connection with the implementation by the United Kingdom of the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction.

What is this Bill?

The Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Bill is a Government Bill tabled by a Minister of the Crown.

Is this Bill currently before Parliament?

Yes. This Bill was introduced on 10 September 2025 and is currently before Parliament.

Whose idea is this Bill?

Government Bills implement the legislative agenda of the Government. This agenda, and the Bills that will implement it, are outlined in the Queen's Speech at the Session's State Opening of Parliament.

What type of Bill is this?

Government Bills are technically Presentation Bills, but the Government can use its legislative time to ensure the schedule of debates to scrutinise the Bill.

So is this going to become a law?

Though the Bill can be amended from its original form, the Bill will almost certainly be enacted in law before the end of the Session, or will be carried over to the subsequent Session.

How can I find out exactly what this Bill does?

The most straightforward information is contained in the initial Explanatory Notes for the Bill.

Would you like to know more?

See these Glossary articles for more information: Government Bills, Process of a Bill

Official Bill Page Initial Explanatory Notes Initial Briefing papers Ministerial Extracts from Debates All Bill Debates

Next Event: Monday 19th January 2026 - 3rd reading

Last Event: Monday 12th January 2026 - Report stage (Lords)

55 Amendments have been proposed for this Bill
View Amendments

Bill Progession through Parliament

Commons Completed
Lords Completed
Awaiting Ping-Pong

Latest Key documents

Timeline of Bill Documents and Stages

19th January 2026
3rd reading (Lords)
12th January 2026
Bill
HL Bill 160 (as amended on Report)
12th January 2026
Report stage: Minutes of Proceedings (Lords)
12th January 2026
Report stage (Lords)
8th January 2026
Amendment Paper
HL Bill 157-I Marshalled list for Report

8

Lord Teverson (LD)
Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer (LD)
Tabled: 8 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157-I Marshalled list for Report
This amendment was No Decision

Clause 14, page 10, line 37, at end insert—<br> “(2A) In section 69 (determination of applications), after subsection (1)(c) insert—<br> “(d) the need to ensure the human rights of those at sea in areas beyond national jurisdiction,””

1

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 8 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157-I Marshalled list for Report
This amendment was No Decision

After Clause 9, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland</b><br> (1) The appropriate national authority may by regulations make provision that is within section 9(2) (read with section 9(3) to (6)) for the purposes of implementing the United Kingdom’s obligations under Part 2 of the Agreement.<br> (2) Regulations under this section may—<br> (a) confer a function (including a discretion) on any person;<br> (b) make different provision for different purposes or for different areas;<br> (c) make consequential, supplementary, incidental, transitional, transitory or saving provision.<br> (3) Regulations under this section that provide for civil sanctions—<br> (a) must provide a right of appeal against the imposition of any such sanction;<br> (b) may make any provision corresponding to, or dealing with similar matters to, provision made by or capable of being made under the Regulatory Enforcement and Sanctions Act 2008.<br> (4) For the purposes of this section, “appropriate national authority”, in relation to the making of regulations, means—<br> (a) the Scottish Ministers, so far as provision made by the regulations would be within the legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament if it were contained in an Act of that Parliament;<br> (b) the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland, so far as provision made by the regulations—<br> (i) would be within the legislative competence of the Northern Ireland Assembly if it were contained in an Act of that Assembly, and<br> (ii) would not, if it were contained in a Bill in the Northern Ireland Assembly, result in the Bill requiring the consent of the Secretary of State under section 8 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.<br> (5) The consequential provision that may be made by regulations in reliance on subsection (2)(c) includes provision amending—<br> (a) in relation to regulations made by the Scottish Ministers, an enactment within the meaning given by Schedule 1 to the Interpretation and Legislative Reform (Scotland) Act 2010 (asp 10) (whenever passed or made), and<br> (b) in relation to regulations made by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland, any statutory provision within the meaning given by section 1(f) of the Interpretation Act (Northern Ireland) 1954.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This new clause would give the Scottish Ministers and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland a power to make provision within devolved legislative competence corresponding to the provision that the Secretary of State can make under clause 9.</p>

2

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 8 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157-I Marshalled list for Report
This amendment was No Decision

After Clause 9, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Procedure for regulations under section (<i>Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland</i>)</b><br> (1) Regulations under section (<i>Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland</i>) that include provision—<br> (a) amending an Act of Parliament, an Act of the Scottish Parliament or Northern Ireland legislation,<br> (b) made in reliance on section 9(2)(b), or<br> (c) creating a civil sanction or varying the maximum amount of any monetary penalty,<br> <span class="wrapped">are subject to the affirmative procedure.</span><br> (2) Any other regulations under section (<i>Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland</i>) are subject to the negative procedure.<br> (3) Any provision that may be made by regulations under section (<i>Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland</i>) subject to the negative procedure may be made in regulations subject to the affirmative procedure.<br> (4) The power of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland to make regulations under section (<i>Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland</i>) is exercisable by statutory rule for the purposes of the Statutory Rules (Northern Ireland) Order 1979 (S.I. 1979/1573 (N.I. 12)).<br> (5) For the purposes of this section—<br> (a) in relation to regulations made by the Scottish Ministers, see sections 28 and 29 of the Interpretation and Legislative Reform (Scotland) Act 2010 for the meanings of “subject to the negative procedure” and “subject to the affirmative procedure”, and<br> (b) in relation to regulations made by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland—<br> (i) where the regulations are subject to the affirmative procedure, the regulations may not be made unless a draft of the regulations has been laid before and approved by a resolution of the Northern Ireland Assembly, and<br> (ii) where the regulations are subject to the negative procedure, the regulations are subject to negative resolution within the meaning given by section 41(6) of the Interpretation Act (Northern Ireland) 1954 (c. 33 (N.I.)).”


Explanatory Text

<p>This new clause would make provision for procedure relating to regulations under new clause (Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland), which would be inserted after clause 9.</p>

3

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 8 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157-I Marshalled list for Report
This amendment was No Decision

After Clause 9, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Consultation: Scotland and Northern Ireland</b><br> (1) The Secretary of State must consult the Scottish Ministers before making regulations under section 9 that contain provision that would be within the legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament if it were contained in an Act of that Parliament.<br> (2) The Secretary of State must consult the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland before making regulations under section 9 that contain provision that—<br> (a) would be within the legislative competence of the Northern Ireland Assembly if it were contained in an Act of that Assembly, and<br> (b) would not, if it were contained in a Bill in the Northern Ireland Assembly, result in the Bill requiring the consent of the Secretary of State under section 8 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This amendment would require the Secretary of State to consult the Scottish Ministers and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland before making regulations under section 9 that contain provision with the legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament or the Northern Ireland Assembly.</p>

4

Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer (LD)
Baroness Jones of Moulsecoomb (Green)
Tabled: 8 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157-I Marshalled list for Report
This amendment was No Decision

After Clause 9, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Control of plastic pellet pollution in areas beyond national jurisdiction</b><br> (1) The Secretary of State must, by regulations and through the exercise of functions under this Act and other enactments, and through co-operation in relevant international organisations and bodies, make provision for the prevention, control and remediation of pollution in areas beyond national jurisdiction arising from the manufacture, handling, transport, storage, loading or unloading of plastic pellets, flakes or powders.<br> (2) Measures taken under this section must aim to secure a level of environmental protection that is no less effective than the measures set out in the International Maritime Organization Marine Environment Protection Committee Circular MEPC.1/Circ.909, as approved in 2024.<br> (3) Regulations under this section must, in particular, include provision—<br> (a) requiring operators to implement mandatory procedures to prevent the loss of plastic pellets throughout the supply chain in areas beyond national jurisdiction;<br> (b) requiring containment, spill-prevention, recovery and clean-up measures in areas beyond national jurisdiction consistent with internationally recognised best practice;<br> (c) requiring training, documentation and internal controls relating to pellet loss prevention in areas beyond national jurisdiction;<br> (d) requiring the prompt reporting of any loss of plastic pellets in areas beyond national jurisdiction to the appropriate authority;<br> (e) providing for the remediation of environmental harm and the recovery of associated costs from the responsible operator;<br> (f) providing for monitoring, inspection of, and enforcement against, the loss of plastic pellets in areas beyond national jurisdiction, including civil sanctions;<br> (g) requiring the Secretary of State to have regard to evidence of the effectiveness of measures adopted by parties to the International Maritime Organization, including measures adopted pursuant to the implementation of MEPC.1/Circ.909 by international signatories, including the European Union.<br> (4) Regulations under this section must be made within 12 months of the day on which this Act is passed.<br> (5) Regulations under this section are subject to the affirmative resolution procedure.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This new clause would require the Secretary of State to make regulations on the control of plastic pellet pollution.</p>

5

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 8 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157-I Marshalled list for Report
This amendment was No Decision

After Clause 12, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2)</b><br> (1) Where section 11 applies, the appropriate national authority may by regulations make such provision as the authority considers appropriate for the purpose mentioned in section 11(2).<br> (2) Subsections (3) to (5) of section 11 apply to regulations under this section as they apply to regulations under that section.<br> (3) Regulations under this section may—<br> (a) confer a function (including a discretion) on any person;<br> (b) make different provision for different purposes or for different areas;<br> (c) make consequential, supplementary, incidental, transitional, transitory or saving provision.<br> (4) Regulations under this section that provide for civil sanctions—<br> (a) must provide a right of appeal against the imposition of any such sanction;<br> (b) may make any provision corresponding to, or dealing with similar matters to, provision made by or capable of being made under the Regulatory Enforcement and Sanctions Act 2008.<br> (5) For the purposes of this section, “appropriate national authority”, in relation to the making of regulations, means—<br> (a) the Scottish Ministers, so far as provision made by the regulations would be within the legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament if it were contained in an Act of that Parliament;<br> (b) the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland, so far as provision made by the regulations—<br> (i) would be within the legislative competence of the Northern Ireland Assembly if it were contained in an Act of that Assembly, and<br> (ii) would not, if it were contained in a Bill in the Northern Ireland Assembly, result in the Bill requiring the consent of the Secretary of State under section 8 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.<br> (6) The consequential provision that may be made by regulations in reliance on subsection (3)(c) includes provision amending—<br> (a) in relation to regulations made by the Scottish Ministers, an enactment within the meaning given by Schedule 1 to the Interpretation and Legislative Reform (Scotland) Act 2010 (asp 10) (whenever passed or made), and<br> (b) in relation to regulations made by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland, any statutory provision within the meaning given by section 1(f) of the Interpretation Act (Northern Ireland) 1954.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This new clause would give the Scottish Ministers and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland a power to make provision within devolved legislative competence corresponding to the provision that the Secretary of State can make under clause 11.</p>

6

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 8 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157-I Marshalled list for Report
This amendment was No Decision

After Clause 12, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Procedure for regulations under section (<i>Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2)</i>)</b><br> (1) Subject to subsection (3), regulations under section (<i>Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2)</i>) that include provision—<br> (a) amending an Act of Parliament, an Act of the Scottish Parliament or Northern Ireland legislation,<br> (b) creating a civil sanction or varying the maximum amount of any monetary penalty, or<br> (c) creating a criminal offence,<br> <span class="wrapped">are subject to the affirmative procedure.</span><br> (2) Subsection (3) applies where the provision within subsection (1) of this section relates to a decision under Article 24(1) of the Agreement.<br> (3) Where the person making the regulations considers that the regulations need to be made urgently in order to give effect to the measure to which they relate, the regulations are subject to the made affirmative procedure.<br> (4) Any other regulations under section (<i>Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2)</i>) are subject to the negative procedure.<br> (5) Any provision that may be made by regulations under section (<i>Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2)</i>) subject to the negative procedure may be made in regulations subject to the affirmative procedure or the made affirmative procedure.<br> (6) The power of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland to make regulations under section (<i>Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2)</i>) is exercisable by statutory rule for the purposes of the Statutory Rules (Northern Ireland) Order 1979 (S.I. 1979/1573 (N.I. 12)).<br> (7) For the purposes of this section—<br> (a) in relation to regulations made by the Scottish Ministers, see sections 28 and 29 of the Interpretation and Legislative Reform (Scotland) Act 2010 for the meanings of “subject to the negative procedure” and “subject to the affirmative procedure”,<br> (b) in relation to regulations made by the Scottish Ministers that are subject to the “made affirmative procedure”, the regulations—<br> (i) must be laid before the Scottish Parliament as soon as reasonably practicable after being made, and<br> (ii) cease to have effect at the end of the period of 28 days beginning with the day on which they are made unless, during that period, the regulations are approved by resolution of the Scottish Parliament,<br> (c) in relation to regulations made by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland that are subject to the “affirmative procedure”, the regulations may not be made unless a draft of the regulations has been laid before and approved by a resolution of the Northern Ireland Assembly,<br> (d) in relation to regulations made by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland that are subject to the “made affirmative procedure”, the regulations—<br> (i) must be laid before the Northern Ireland Assembly as soon as reasonably practicable after being made, and<br> (ii) cease to have effect at the end of the period of 28 days beginning with the day on which the regulations are made unless, during that period, the regulations are approved by a resolution of the Northern Ireland Assembly, and<br> (e) in relation to regulations made by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland that are subject to “the negative procedure”, the regulations are subject to negative resolution within the meaning given by section 41(6) of the Interpretation Act (Northern Ireland) 1954 (c. 33 (N.I.)).<br> (8) In calculating the period of 28 days mentioned in subsection (7)(b)(ii), no account is to be taken of any time during which the Scottish Parliament is—<br> (a) dissolved, or<br> (b) in recess for more than 4 days.<br> (9) In calculating the period of 28 days mentioned in subsection (7)(d)(ii), no account is to be taken of any time during which the Northern Ireland Assembly is—<br> (a) dissolved,<br> (b) in recess for more than 4 days, or<br> (c) adjourned for more than 6 days.<br> (10) Where regulations cease to have effect as a result of subsection (7)(b)(ii) or (d)(ii), that does not—<br> (a) affect anything previously done under or by virtue of the regulations, or<br> (b) prevent the making of new regulations.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This new clause would make provision for procedure relating to regulations under new clause (Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2)), which would be inserted after clause 12.</p>

7

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 8 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157-I Marshalled list for Report
This amendment was No Decision

After Clause 12, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Consultation: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2)</b><br> (1) The Secretary of State must consult the Scottish Ministers before making regulations under section 11 that contain provision that would be within the legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament if it were contained in an Act of that Parliament.<br> (2) The Secretary of State must consult the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland before making regulations under section 11 that contain provision that—<br> (a) would be within the legislative competence of the Northern Ireland Assembly if it were contained in an Act of that Assembly, and<br> (b) would not, if it were contained in a Bill in the Northern Ireland Assembly, result in the Bill requiring the consent of the Secretary of State under section 8 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.<br> (3) Subsections (1) and (2) do not apply where the Secretary of State considers that the regulations need to be made urgently in order to give effect to a measure adopted under Article 24(1) of the Agreement (decisions to adopt measures to be applied on an emergency basis).”


Explanatory Text

<p>This amendment would require the Secretary of State to consult the Scottish Ministers and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland before making regulations under section 11 that contain provision with the legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament or the Northern Ireland Assembly, except in the case of regulations that need to be made urgently.</p>

9

Baroness Jones of Moulsecoomb (Green)
Tabled: 8 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157-I Marshalled list for Report
This amendment was No Decision

After Clause 18, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Environmental impact assessment exemptions</b><br> (1) Where an appropriate authority determines that an environmental impact assessment is not required under regulation 8A of the Marine Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2007 (S.I. 15 2007/1518) or Regulation 8 of the Marine Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2017 (S.S.I 2017/115), it must only be on the basis that another legal instrument, framework, or body provides an environmental assessment process equivalent in scope, procedural requirements, substantive effect, and public participation to that required under Part IV of the BBNJ Agreement and Article 206 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).<br> (2) The appropriate authority must record the reasons for this determination and publish a statement explaining how the equivalence criteria have been met.<br> (3) For the purposes of this section, a legal instrument, framework, or body is not to be regarded as equivalent unless it provides—<br> (a) systematic assessment of cumulative impacts across activities and sectors,<br> (b) ecosystem-level assessment, including impacts on non-target species and food webs,<br> (c) assessment of impacts on migratory species across jurisdictional boundaries,<br> (d) public participation and transparency comparable to environmental impact assessment standards, and<br> (e) application of the precautionary principle.<br> (4) No exemption powers in the Regulations specified in subsection (1) may prevent the Secretary of State or appropriate authority from determining, in an individual case, whether reliance on another legal instrument, framework or body is sufficient to satisfy the requirements of Article 206 of UNCLOS and Part IV of the BBNJ Agreement.”

10

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 8 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157-I Marshalled list for Report
This amendment was No Decision

Clause 23, page 23, line 32, at end insert—<br> “(za) section (<i>Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland</i>),”


Explanatory Text

<p>This amendment is consequential on my amendment inserting new clause (Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland) after clause 9.</p>

11

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 8 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157-I Marshalled list for Report
This amendment was No Decision

Clause 23, page 23, line 32, at end insert—<br> “(za) section (<i>Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2)</i>),”


Explanatory Text

<p>This amendment is consequential on my amendment inserting new clause (Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2)) after clause 12.</p>

12

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 8 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157-I Marshalled list for Report
This amendment was No Decision

Clause 26, page 24, line 11, leave out “and 15” and insert “, 15 and 18”


Explanatory Text

<p>This amendment would provide for clause 18 to come into force on such day as the Secretary of State may by regulations appoints.</p>

6th January 2026
Amendment Paper
HL Bill 157 Running list of amendments – 6 January 2026

None

Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer (LD)
Tabled: 6 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157 Running list of amendments – 6 January 2026
This amendment was No Decision

After Clause 9, insert the following new Clause- "Control of plastic pellet pollution in areas beyond national jurisdiction (1) The Secretary of State must, by regulations and through the exercise of functions under this Act and other enactments, and through co-operation in relevant international organisations and bodies, make provision for the prevention, control and remediation of pollution in areas beyond national jurisdiction arising from the manufacture, handling, transport, storage, loading or unloading of plastic pellets, flakes or powders. (2) Measures taken under this section must aim to secure a level of environmental protection that is no less effective than the measures set out in the International Maritime Organization Marine Environment Protection Committee Circular MEPC.1/Circ.909, as approved in 2024. (3) Regulations under this section must, in particular, include provision— (a) requiring operators to implement mandatory procedures to prevent the loss of plastic pellets throughout the supply chain in areas beyond national jurisdiction; (b) requiring containment, spill-prevention, recovery and clean-up measures in areas beyond national jurisdiction consistent with internationally recognised best practice; (c) requiring training, documentation and internal controls relating to pellet loss prevention in areas beyond national jurisdiction; (d) requiring the prompt reporting of any loss of plastic pellets in areas beyond national jurisdiction to the appropriate authority; (e) providing for the remediation of environmental harm and the recovery of associated costs from the responsible operator; (f) providing for monitoring, inspection of, and enforcement against, the loss of plastic pellets in areas beyond national jurisdiction, including civil sanctions; (g) requiring the Secretary of State to have regard to evidence of the effectiveness of measures adopted by parties to the International Maritime Organization, including measures adopted pursuant to the implementation of MEPC.1/Circ.909 by international signatories, including the European Union. (4) Regulations under this section must be made within 12 months of the day on which this Act is passed. (5) Regulations under this section are subject to the affirmative resolution procedure."

5th January 2026
Amendment Paper
HL Bill 157 Running list of amendments – 5 January 2026

None

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 5 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157 Running list of amendments – 6 January 2026
This amendment was No Decision

After Clause 9, insert the following new Clause— “Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (1) The appropriate national authority may by regulations make provision that is within section 9(2) (read with section 9(3) to (6)) for the purposes of implementing the United Kingdom's obligations under Part 2 of the Agreement. (2) Regulations under this section may— (a) confer a function (including a discretion) on any person; (b) make different provision for different purposes or for different areas; (c) make consequential, supplementary, incidental, transitional, transitory or saving provision. (3) Regulations under this section that provide for civil sanctions— (a) must provide a right of appeal against the imposition of any such sanction; (b) may make any provision corresponding to, or dealing with similar matters to, provision made by or capable of being made under the Regulatory Enforcement and Sanctions Act 2008. (4) For the purposes of this section, “appropriate national authority”, in relation to the making of regulations, means— (a) the Scottish Ministers, so far as provision made by the regulations would be within the legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament if it were contained in an Act of that Parliament; (b) the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland, so far as provision made by the regulations –

None

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 5 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157 Running list of amendments – 6 January 2026
This amendment was No Decision

After Clause 9, insert the following new Clause— "Procedure for regulations under section (Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland) (1) Regulations under section (Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland) that include provision – (a) amending an Act of Parliament, an Act of the Scottish Parliament or Northern Ireland legislation, (b) made in reliance on section 9(2)(b), or (c) creating a civil sanction or varying the maximum amount of any monetary penalty, are subject to the affirmative procedure. (2) Any other regulations under section (Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland) are subject to the negative procedure. (3) Any provision that may be made by regulations under section (Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland) subject to the negative procedure may be made in regulations subject to the affirmative procedure. (4) The power of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland to make regulations under section (Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland) is exercisable by statutory rule for the purposes of the Statutory Rules (Northern Ireland) Order 1979 (S.I. 1979/1573 (N.I. 12)).

None

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 5 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157 Running list of amendments – 6 January 2026
This amendment was No Decision

After Clause 9, insert the following new Clause— "Consultation: Scotland and Northern Ireland (1) The Secretary of State must consult the Scottish Ministers before making regulations under section 9 that contain provision that would be within the legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament if it were contained in an Act of that Parliament. (2) The Secretary of State must consult the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland before making regulations under section 9 that contain provision that— (a) would be within the legislative competence of the Northern Ireland Assembly if it were contained in an Act of that Assembly, and (b) would not, if it were contained in a Bill in the Northern Ireland Assembly, result in the Bill requiring the consent of the Secretary of State under section 8 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998."

None

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 5 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157 Running list of amendments – 6 January 2026
This amendment was No Decision

After Clause 12, insert the following new Clause – "Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2) (1) Where section 11 applies, the appropriate national authority may by regulations make such provision as the authority considers appropriate for the purpose mentioned in section 11(2). (2) Subsections (3) to (5) of section 11 apply to regulations under this section as they apply to regulations under that section. (3) Regulations under this section may— (a) confer a function (including a discretion) on any person; (b) make different provision for different purposes or for different areas; (c) make consequential, supplementary, incidental, transitional, transitory or saving provision. (4) Regulations under this section that provide for civil sanctions— (a) must provide a right of appeal against the imposition of any such sanction; (b) may make any provision corresponding to, or dealing with similar matters to, provision made by or capable of being made under the Regulatory Enforcement and Sanctions Act 2008. (5) For the purposes of this section, “appropriate national authority”, in relation to the making of regulations, means— (a) the Scottish Ministers, so far as provision made by the regulations would be within the legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament if it were contained in an Act of that Parliament; (b) the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland, so far as provision made by the regulations – (i) would be within the legislative competence of the Northern Ireland Assembly if it were contained in an Act of that Assembly, and (ii) would not, if it were contained in a Bill in the Northern Ireland Assembly, result in the Bill requiring the consent of the Secretary of State under section 8 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998. (6) The consequential provision that may be made by regulations in reliance on subsection (3)(c) includes provision amending— (a) in relation to regulations made by the Scottish Ministers, an enactment within the meaning given by Schedule 1 to the Interpretation and Legislative Reform (Scotland) Act 2010 (asp 10) (whenever passed or made), and (b) in relation to regulations made by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland, any statutory provision within the meaning given by section 1(f) of the Interpretation Act (Northern Ireland) 1954."

None

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 5 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157 Running list of amendments – 6 January 2026
This amendment was No Decision

After Clause 12, insert the following new Clause – "Procedure for regulations under section (Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2)) (1) Subject to subsection (3), regulations under section (Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2)) that include provision— (a) amending an Act of Parliament, an Act of the Scottish Parliament or Northern Ireland legislation, (b) creating a civil sanction or varying the maximum amount of any monetary penalty, or (c) creating a criminal offence, are subject to the affirmative procedure. (2) Subsection (3) applies where the provision within subsection (1) of this section relates to a decision under Article 24(1) of the Agreement. (3) Where the person making the regulations considers that the regulations need to be made urgently in order to give effect to the measure to which they relate, the regulations are subject to the made affirmative procedure. (4) Any other regulations under section (Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2)) are subject to the negative procedure. (5) Any provision that may be made by regulations under section (Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2)) subject to the negative procedure may be made in regulations subject to the affirmative procedure or the made affirmative procedure. (6) The power of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland to make regulations under section (Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2)) is exercisable by statutory rule for the purposes of the Statutory Rules (Northern Ireland) Order 1979 (S.I. 1979/1573 (N.I. 12)). (7) For the purposes of this section— (a) in relation to regulations made by the Scottish Ministers, see sections 28 and 29 of the Interpretation and Legislative Reform (Scotland) Act 2010 for the meanings of “subject to the negative procedure” and “subject to the affirmative procedure”, (b) in relation to regulations made by the Scottish Ministers that are subject to the “made affirmative procedure”, the regulations – (i) must be laid before the Scottish Parliament as soon as reasonably practicable after being made, and

None

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 5 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157 Running list of amendments – 6 January 2026
This amendment was No Decision

After Clause 12, insert the following new Clause— "Consultation: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2) (1) The Secretary of State must consult the Scottish Ministers before making regulations under section 11 that contain provision that would be within the legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament if it were contained in an Act of that Parliament. (2) The Secretary of State must consult the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland before making regulations under section 11 that contain provision that— (a) would be within the legislative competence of the Northern Ireland Assembly if it were contained in an Act of that Assembly, and (b) would not, if it were contained in a Bill in the Northern Ireland Assembly, result in the Bill requiring the consent of the Secretary of State under section 8 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998. (3) Subsections (1) and (2) do not apply where the Secretary of State considers that the regulations need to be made urgently in order to give effect to a measure adopted under Article 24(1) of the Agreement (decisions to adopt measures to be applied on an emergency basis).”

None

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 5 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157 Running list of amendments – 6 January 2026
This amendment was No Decision

Clause 23, page 23, line 32, at end insert— "(aa) section (Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland),”

None

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 5 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157 Running list of amendments – 6 January 2026
This amendment was No Decision

Clause 23, page 23, line 32, at end insert— "(aa) section (Power to make regulations: Scotland and Northern Ireland (No. 2)),”

None

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 5 Jan 2026
HL Bill 157 Running list of amendments – 6 January 2026
This amendment was No Decision

Clause 26, page 24, line 11, leave out “and 15” and insert “, 15 and 18"

22nd December 2025
Amendment Paper
HL Bill 157 Running list of amendments – 22 December 2025

None

Lord Teverson (LD)
Tabled: 22 Dec 2025
HL Bill 157 Running list of amendments – 6 January 2026
This amendment was No Decision

Clause 14, page 10, line 37, at end insert— "(2A) In section 69 (determination of applications), after subsection (1)(c) insert— “(d) the need to ensure the human rights of those at sea in areas beyond national jurisdiction,"

16th December 2025
Bill
HL Bill 157 (as amended in Grand Committee)
16th December 2025
Committee stage: Minutes of Proceedings (Lords)
16th December 2025
Committee stage (Lords)
15th December 2025
Amendment Paper
HL Bill 148-I(a) Amendments for Grand Committee (Supplementary to the Marshalled List)

5A

Lord Fuller (Con)
Tabled: 15 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I(a) Amendments for Grand Committee (Supplementary to the Marshalled List)
This amendment was Not Moved
View the speech made in the House

Clause 11, page 8, line 26, at end insert—<br> “(4A) For the purposes of consultation under subsection (4)(h), “P&I Clubs” means any provider of mutual maritime insurance under the Marine Insurance Act 1906.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This amendment provides a definition of “P&I clubs” for the purpose of consultation required by an earlier amendment in the name of Lord Fuller.</p>

7A

Lord Callanan (Con) - Shadow Minister (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Tabled: 15 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I(a) Amendments for Grand Committee (Supplementary to the Marshalled List)
This amendment was Not Moved
View the speech made in the House

After Clause 13, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Report: impact of Chinese industrial fishing on biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction</b><br> (1) Within six months of the day on which this Act is passed, the Secretary of State must publish a report on the harms to marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction caused by Chinese industrial fishing and the potential benefits of the introduction of marine protected areas which are beyond national jurisdiction in limiting those effects.<br> (2) The Secretary of State must lay a copy of the report under subsection (1) before Parliament.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This probing amendment seeks to understand what consideration ministers have given to the harms of Chinese industrial fishing and the positive effects of any future marine protected areas which are beyond national jurisdiction in limiting those harms.</p>

12th December 2025
Amendment Paper
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee

2

Lord Callanan (Con) - Shadow Minister (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Tabled: 12 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved
View the speech made in the House

After Clause 5, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Report: access to samples by foreign state actors</b><br> (1) Within six months of the day on which this Act is passed the Secretary of State must publish a report any threat which would arise from foreign state actors accessing information under section 5.<br> (2) The Secretary of State must lay a copy of the report under subsection (1) before Parliament.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This probing amendment seeks to understand what consideration ministers have given to the risks posed by foreign state actors accessing samples of marine genetic resources under clause 5.</p>

4

Lord Fuller (Con)
Tabled: 12 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved
View the speech made in the House

Clause 11, page 8, line 2, at end insert—<br> “(2A) In making regulations under this section for the purposes of meeting the obligations of the United Kingdom under Article 22(1)(a), 22(1)(b) and 25(1) of the Agreement, the Secretary of State must have regard to the economic and infrastructural consequences of such provisions, including but not limited to the impact on—<br> (a) submarine communications cables, and<br> (b) shipping lanes.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This probing amendment seeks to clarify that the Secretary of State should have regard to the economic and infrastructure implications of making regulations to meet obligations under Article 25(1) of the Agreement.</p>

5

Lord Fuller (Con)
Tabled: 12 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved
View the speech made in the House

Clause 11, page 8, line 26, at end insert—<br> “(h) about requirements for UK craft which do not have protection and indemnity (“P&I”) insurance, having consulted P&I Clubs.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This probing amendment seeks to permit the Secretary of State to regulate enforcement on craft that are not members of Class Societies.</p>

7

Lord Callanan (Con) - Shadow Minister (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Tabled: 12 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved
View the speech made in the House

After Clause 13, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Report: Marine Protected Areas in the Indian Ocean</b><br> (1) Within six months of the day on which this Act is passed, the Secretary of State must publish a report on the potential impact of the introduction of Marine Protected Areas in parts of the Indian Ocean that are beyond national jurisdiction on marine biodiversity in the area around the Chagos Archipelago.<br> (2) The Secretary of State must lay a copy of the report under subsection (1) before Parliament.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This probing amendment seeks to understand what consideration ministers have given to the impact of any future marine protected areas in the Indian Ocean on marine biodiversity in the area around the Chagos Archipelago.</p>

16

Lord Callanan (Con) - Shadow Minister (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Tabled: 12 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved
View the speech made in the House

After Clause 19, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Powers of the Secretary of State: review</b><br> (1) Within three years beginning on the day on which this Act is passed, the Secretary of State must lay before Parliament a report on the exercise of powers conferred on them by virtue of this Act.<br> (2) A report under this section must include—<br> (a) a description of the powers used,<br> (b) the purposes for which they have been used,<br> (c) an assessment of how effectively they have been used, and<br> (d) an assessment of how their use accords with the objectives of the Agreement.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This new clause requires the Secretary of State to report to Parliament on the exercise of powers conferred on them by this Bill.</p>

17

Lord Callanan (Con) - Shadow Minister (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Tabled: 12 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved
View the speech made in the House

After Clause 19, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Reporting requirements relating to this Act</b><br> (1) Before the end of the period of two years beginning on the day on which this Act is passed, and at least once every two years thereafter, the Secretary of State must lay before Parliament a report on the implementation and enforcement of the Act.<br> (2) The report must include—<br> (a) data on access to samples;<br> (b) information relating to the number and nature of DSI views and downloads;<br> (c) information about the amount and nature of enforcement actions taken;<br> (d) an assessment of the impact of this Act on business, scientific research, and the fishing industry;<br> (e) a summary of any regulatory changes made under this Act;<br> (f) an assessment of the impact of any such regulatory changes.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This new clause would require the Secretary of State to lay a report before Parliament every two years on the effect and enforcement of the Act.</p>

18

Lord Callanan (Con) - Shadow Minister (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Tabled: 12 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved
View the speech made in the House

After Clause 19, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Report: impact of marine protected areas on the sustainability of the UK fishing fleet</b><br> (1) Within six months of the passage of this Act the Secretary of State must publish a report on the potential impact of the introduction of Marine Protected Areas in areas that are beyond national jurisdiction on the sustainability of the UK fishing fleet.<br> (2) The Secretary of State must lay a copy of the report under subsection (1) before Parliament.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This probing amendment seeks to understand what consideration ministers have given to the impact of any future marine protected areas in the ocean beyond national jurisdiction on the sustainability of the UK fishing fleet.</p>

19

Baroness Boycott (XB)
Tabled: 12 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved
View the speech made in the House

After Clause 19, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Amendment to the Environment Act 2021</b><br> In section 19 (policy statement on environmental principles: effect) of the Environment Act 2021, after subsection (6) insert—<br> “(7) Subsection (1) applies to policy regarding United Kingdom activities in areas beyond national jurisdiction related to the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction, opened for signature at New York on 20 September 2023.<br> (8) In this section, “areas beyond national jurisdiction” has the meaning given by section 1 (the Agreement) of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Act 2025.””


Explanatory Text

<p>This amendment would extend the application of the Environmental Principles Policy Statement to apply to any activities taken as a result of this Bill, from the current situation where they apply domestically.</p>

8th December 2025
Amendment Paper
HL Bill 148 Running list of amendments – 8 December 2025

12

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 8 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Agreed

After Clause 17, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Screening and procedure</b><br> (1) The Marine Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2017 (S.S.I 2017/115) are amended as follows.<br> (2) In regulation 2 (interpretation)—<br> (a) in paragraph (1), after the definition of “application website” insert—<br> ““area beyond national jurisdiction” has the meaning given by Article 1(2) of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement;<br> “BBNJ works” means the carrying out of a regulated activity that engages the United Kingdom’s obligations under Part 4 of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement (environmental impact assessments) in respect of an activity in an area beyond national jurisdiction;<br> “the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement” means the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction, opened for signature at New York on 20 September 2023;”;<br> (b) in paragraph (1), in the definition of “EIA project”—<br> (i) in the words before paragraph (a) omit “either”;<br> (ii) omit the “or” at the end of paragraph (a), and<br> (iii) at the end of paragraph (b) insert “; or<br> (c) BBNJ works where there are reasonable grounds for believing that the works may cause—<br> (i) substantial pollution, or<br> (ii) significant and harmful changes to,<br> <span class="wrapped">the marine environment;”;</span><br> (c) in paragraph (1), in the definition of “environmental information”—<br> (i) omit the “and” at the end of paragraph (c);<br> (ii) at the end of paragraph (d) insert “; and<br> (e) in relation to BBNJ works that are an EIA project, any other matter necessary to give effect to Article 31(1)(b) and (c) of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement;”;<br> (d) in paragraph (1), in the definition of “regulated activity”, at the end insert “(see also paragraph (1B))”;<br> (e) after paragraph (1) insert—<br> “(1A) Terms used in paragraph (c)(i) and (ii) of the definition of “EIA project” have the same meaning that they have in the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement (see in particular Article 30(1)(b)).<br> (1B) Where the requirement for a marine licence, or variation of a marine licence, under Part 4 of the 2010 Act for works in an area beyond national jurisdiction depends on the application of these Regulations (including the doing or not doing of anything under these Regulations), these Regulations have effect as if such a licence or variation were required unless and until the application of these Regulations produces a different result.”<br> (3) In regulation 8 (exemptions)—<br> (a) in paragraph (4), in the words before sub-paragraph (a), after “apply” insert “in respect of schedule 1 works or schedule 2 works”;<br> (b) after paragraph (4) insert—<br> “(4A) The Scottish Ministers may direct that these Regulations do not require an environmental impact assessment to be carried out in relation to BBNJ works if they are satisfied that an equivalent assessment has been carried out, is being carried out or will be carried out in relation to the works.<br> (4B) The Scottish Ministers may not grant a regulatory approval for BBNJ works in respect of which a direction under paragraph (4A) has been given unless they have determined that to do so would be compatible with the United Kingdom’s obligations under Part 4 of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement.<br> (4C) For the purposes of paragraph (4A), an assessment is an equivalent assessment if it is sufficient to meet the requirements of Part 4 of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement.”<br> (4) In regulation 9 (general provisions relating to screening)—<br> (a) in paragraph (1), in the words before sub-paragraph (a), after “works” insert “or BBNJ works”;<br> (b) omit the “and” at the end of sub-paragraph (a)(ii);<br> (c) at the end of sub-paragraph (b) insert “; and<br> (c) in the case of BBNJ works, have regard to any other matter necessary to give effect to Article 30(1)(b) of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement.”;<br> (d) after paragraph (2) insert—<br> “(2A) Where the Scottish Ministers adopt a screening opinion in relation to BBNJ works to the effect that the works are not an EIA project, the screening opinion must also contain provision stating whether the Scottish Ministers consider that—<br> (a) the works may have more than a minor or transitory effect on the marine environment, or<br> (b) the effects of the works are unknown or poorly understood.<br> (2B) Terms used in paragraph (2A)(a) and (b) have the same meaning that they have in the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement (see in particular Article 30(1)).”<br> (5) In regulation 12 (application without prior screening)—<br> (a) in paragraph (1)(a), for “or an application to carry out schedule 2 works” substitute “schedule 2 works or BBNJ works”;<br> (b) for paragraph (2) substitute—<br> “(2) Where it appears to the Scottish Ministers that the application relates to proposed schedule 1 works or schedule 2 works, the Scottish Ministers must adopt a screening opinion in relation to the proposed works.”<br> (c) after paragraph (2) insert—<br> “(2A) Where it appears to the Scottish Ministers that the application relates to proposed BBNJ works, the Scottish Ministers must adopt a screening opinion in any case where the Scottish Ministers consider that—<br> (a) the proposed works may have more than a minor or transitory effect on the marine environment, or<br> (b) the effects of the proposed works are unknown or poorly understood.<br> (2B) Where the Scottish Ministers decide that paragraph (2A) does not apply in respect of proposed BBNJ works, they must give the applicant a notice stating that the proposed works do not require an environmental impact assessment.<br> (2C) Terms used in paragraph (2A)(a) and (b) have the same meaning that they have in the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement (see in particular Article 30(1)).”<br> (d) in paragraph (3), after “works” insert “or BBNJ works”.<br> (6) In regulation 13 (EIA application made without an EIA report), in paragraph (3)(b), after “12(2)” insert or “12(2A)”.<br> (7) In Schedule 4 (information for inclusion in environmental impact assessment reports)—<br> (a) after paragraph 9 insert—<br> <span class="sub-para subsection sub-para-indented"><span class="sub-para-num">(9A)</span><span class="sub-para-text">In relation to BBNJ works, any other information that is necessary to enable the Scottish Ministers to give effect to Article 31(1)(c) of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement.”;</span></span><br> (b) in paragraph 10, for “9” substitute “9A”.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This new clause would make changes to Marine Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2017 that are necessary for the purpose of implementing the United Kingdom’s obligations under Part 4 the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement.</p>

13

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 8 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Agreed

Clause 18, page 16, line 10, leave out from “implementing” to “and” in line 12 and insert “any Article 38 standards or guidelines,”


Explanatory Text

<p>This amendment is consequential on my amendment inserting a new clause after clause 17, which would mean that the power conferred on Scottish Ministers by clause 18 can be limited to implementing Article 38 standards or guidelines (as with the power conferred on the Secretary of State by clause 16(1)).</p>

14

Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab) - Minister of State (Development)
Tabled: 8 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Agreed

Clause 18, page 16, line 22, leave out from beginning to “may” in line 24 and insert “Regulations under this section”


Explanatory Text

<p>This amendment is consequential on my amendment to clause 18, page 16, line 10.</p>

5th December 2025
Select Committee report
39th Report of the Delegated Powers and Regulatory Reform Committee
5th December 2025
Amendment Paper
HL Bill 148 Running list of amendments - 5 December 2025

1

Lord Teverson (LD)
Tabled: 5 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Withdrawn

After Clause 3, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Prevention of avoidance by offshoring of activities</b><br> (1) This section applies where—<br> (a) a United Kingdom person ("P") arranges for relevant research and development or commercialisation involving marine genetic resources of areas beyond national jurisdiction, or digital sequence information on such resources, to be carried out wholly or partly outside the United Kingdom, and<br> (b) the effect, or likely effect, of the arrangement is that utilisation which would otherwise fall within section 3(1) does not do so.<br> (2) Where this section applies, the utilisation is to be treated, for the purposes of this Part, as if it were a utilisation project to which section 3 applies and were carried out in the United Kingdom by P.<br> (3) The Secretary of State may by regulations make further provision—<br> (a) requiring United Kingdom persons to take reasonable steps to ensure that arrangements with non-United Kingdom persons for the collection or utilisation of marine genetic resources of areas beyond national jurisdiction, or digital sequence information on such resources, are not entered into for the purpose of avoiding, or frustrating the operation of, this Part;<br> (b) requiring United Kingdom persons to keep, and to provide to the Secretary of State on request, such records and information as may be prescribed about such arrangements;<br> (c) for the application, with or without modifications, of enforcement provisions made under section 9 to failures to comply with regulations under this section.<br> (4) In this section, “United Kingdom person” and “relevant research and development” have the meanings given by section 20.<br> (5) Regulations under this section are subject to the negative resolution procedure.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This new clause is intended to prevent UK companies and other UK persons from avoiding the information-sharing and benefit-sharing obligations in Part 2 of the Act by offshoring marine genetic resource research and development or commercialisation to non-Parties to the BBNJ Agreement.</p>

3

Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer (LD)
Tabled: 5 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved

After Clause 7 insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“International capacity building: marine science and technology</b><br> (1) The Secretary of State must prepare and publish a strategy setting out the United Kingdom’s contribution to capacity building and the transfer of marine technology for the purposes of Part 5 of the Agreement.<br> (2) The strategy must, in particular—<br> (a) identify the priority capacity-building and technology-transfer needs of developing States that are party to the Agreement, including least developed countries, land-locked developing countries and small island developing States, in relation to the effective implementation of the Agreement;<br> (b) set out how the United Kingdom will, both bilaterally and through relevant multilateral, regional and sectoral bodies and mechanisms, support—<br> (i) the development of sustained marine scientific and technological capacity, including for the conduct of environmental impact assessments and the design, implementation and management of area-based management tools, and<br> (ii) the establishment and operation of regional and national centres of excellence, training programmes, fellowships and other forms of knowledge-sharing and ocean literacy;<br> (c) set out the arrangements for mobilising and aligning relevant sources of public finance, including official development assistance and climate and nature finance, in support of the objectives in paragraphs (a) to (c);<br> (d) explain how the strategy will promote inclusive participation, including of women, early-career researchers, indigenous peoples and local communities, and other under-represented groups, in activities carried out under or in connection with the Agreement.<br> (3) In preparing and revising the strategy the Secretary of State must consult—<br> (a) representatives of developing States that are party to the Agreement, including small island developing States,<br> (b) any committee or other subsidiary body established under the Agreement in respect of capacity building and the transfer of marine technology, so far as is practicable, and<br> (c) such persons as the Secretary of State considers representative of the scientific community, civil society, industry and indigenous peoples and local communities.<br> (4) The Secretary of State must—<br> (a) publish the first strategy under this section within the period of 12 months of the day on which this Act is passed, and<br> (b) lay the strategy, and any revised strategy, before Parliament.<br> (5) The provisions listed under subsections (1) to (4) must be repeated at least every Parliament.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This amendment requires the Secretary of State to create and publish a Strategy outlining the UK’s compliance with Part 5 of the BBNJ Agreement, relating to Capacity-Building and the Transfer of Marine Technology.</p>

6

Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer (LD)
Baroness Jones of Moulsecoomb (Green)
Tabled: 5 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Withdrawn

After Clause 11, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Plastic Pollution and marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction</b><br> (1) The Secretary of State must, in exercising functions under this Act, have regard to the risks to the marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction arising from plastic pollution, in accordance to the preamble to the Agreement.<br> (2) The Secretary of State must prepare and publish a statement (“the plastic pollution statement”) setting out—<br> (a) the Government’s assessment of the actual and potential impacts of plastic pollution on the marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction,<br> (b) the measures the Government proposes to take, through the exercise of functions under this Act and other enactments, and through co-operation in relevant international organisations and bodies, to prevent, reduce and monitor such pollution, and<br> (c) how those measures are intended to contribute to the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction and to the objectives of the Agreement.<br> (3) In particular, the statement must address—<br> (a) how the United Kingdom will, as appropriate—<br> (i) co-operate with the International Maritime Organization and other competent international organisations to promote the adoption and effective implementation of mandatory measures to prevent and respond to plastic pollution from ships;<br> (ii) support the development of regionally and globally coordinated monitoring, reporting and data-sharing on plastic pollution, including its presence in areas beyond national jurisdiction;<br> (iii) encourage best practice standards across the plastic supply chain, including in relation to the containment, packaging, labelling and handling of plastic intended for transport by sea;<br> (b) any proposals to support capacity-building, technology transfer and scientific research related to the detection, tracking and mitigation of plastic pollution in areas beyond national jurisdiction, in co-operation with developing States.<br> (4) In preparing and revising the plastic pollution statement the Secretary of State must consult—<br> (a) the Scottish Ministers, the Welsh Ministers and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland;<br> (b) such persons as the Secretary of State considers representative of the scientific community, civil society, affected coastal communities and industry sectors involved in the manufacture, handling, shipping and use of plastic;<br> (c) such international organisations and bodies as the Secretary of State considers appropriate.<br> (5) The Secretary of State must—<br> (a) publish the first plastic pollution statement within the period of 12 months of the day on which this Act is passed, and<br> (b) lay the statement, and any revised statement, before Parliament.<br> (6) The Secretary of State must, at least once in every Parliament, review the plastic pollution statement and, if appropriate, revise it.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This new clause requires the Secretary of State to assess and respond to the risks posed to marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction by plastic pollution arising from activities under UK jurisdiction or control.</p>

8

Lord Teverson (LD)
Tabled: 5 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved

Clause 14, page 10, line 37, at end insert—<br> “(2A) In section 69 (determination of applications), after subsection (1)(c) insert—<br> “(d) the need to protect the deep-sea and seabed environment in areas beyond national jurisdiction,”.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This amendment amends the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009, to ensure that licensing authorities have regard to protecting the deep-sea and seabeds within the context of offering marine licenses.</p>

9

Lord Teverson (LD)
Tabled: 5 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved

Clause 14, page 10, line 37, at end insert—<br> “(2A) In section 69 (determination of applications), after subsection (1)(c) insert—<br> “(d) the need to ensure proper protection of sustainable fishing populations in areas beyond national jurisdiction,”.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This amendment amends the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009, to ensure that licensing authorities have regard to sustainable fishing within the context of offering marine licenses.</p>

10

Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer (LD)
Tabled: 5 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved

Clause 14, page 11, line 13, at end insert—<br> “(5) In section 69 (determination of applications), after subsection (1)(c) insert—<br> “(d) the need to prevent plastic pollution of oceans and seas in areas beyond national jurisdiction,”.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This amendment amends the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009, to ensure that licensing authorities have regard to preventing plastic pollution within the context of offering marine licenses.</p>

11

Lord Teverson (LD)
Tabled: 5 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved

After Clause 15, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Review on the impact and use of flags of convenience</b><br> (1) The Secretary of State must, within six months of the day on which this Act is passed, conduct a review of—<br> (a) the use of flags of convenience and its impact on biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction;<br> (b) the enforcement measures being taken against ships operating under flags of convenience in areas beyond national jurisdiction to limit harms to biodiversity caused by such ships.<br> (2) The Secretary of State must lay a report before Parliament setting out the findings of the review, including any recommendations for improving enforcement regarding the use of flags of convenience with respect to biodiversity.<br> (3) The review and report required under this section must be repeated every Parliament.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This new clause commits the Secretary of State to conducting a review, at least every Parliament, on the impact on biodiversity of the use of flags of convenience, and the UK’s enforcement regarding this practice.</p>

15

Lord Teverson (LD)
Tabled: 5 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved

After Clause 19, insert the following new Clause—<br> <b>“Strategy: marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction and fishing activities</b><br> (1) The Secretary of State must prepare and publish a strategy setting out how the United Kingdom will, in exercising functions under this Act and under the Agreement, support the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction in so far as it is affected by fishing and fishing-related activities.<br> (2) The strategy must, in particular—<br> (a) set out how the United Kingdom will work, bilaterally and through regional fisheries management organisations and arrangements and other relevant international bodies, to—<br> (i) promote the designation, effective management and enforcement of area-based management tools, including marine protected areas, in a manner consistent with the Agreement,<br> (ii) prevent, deter and eliminate illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing in areas beyond national jurisdiction, including through the effective implementation of agreed measures such as vessel monitoring, transhipment controls, port State measures, observer schemes and IUU vessel lists, and<br> (iii) improve the collection, sharing and use of best available scientific information on the impacts of fishing and fishing-related activities on marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction,<br> (b) explain how, when formulating and implementing United Kingdom positions in such organisations and bodies, due regard will be had to the principles and approaches set out in Article 7 of the Agreement, including the precautionary principle and an ecosystem approach, and<br> (c) describe the arrangements for co-ordinating the exercise of functions under this Act with the exercise of functions under the Fisheries Act 2020 and other enactments relating to fishing and fisheries management.<br> (3) In preparing and revising the strategy the Secretary of State must consult—<br> (a) the Scottish Ministers, the Welsh Ministers and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland,<br> (b) representatives of regional fisheries management organisations and arrangements to which the United Kingdom is a contracting party or co-operating non-contracting party, and<br> (c) such persons as the Secretary of State considers representative of the fishing industry, the scientific community and civil society.<br> (4) The Secretary of State must—<br> (a) publish the first strategy under this section within the period of 12 months of the day on which this Act is passed, and<br> (b) lay the strategy, and any revised strategy, before Parliament.<br> (5) The Secretary of State must, at least once in every Parliament, repeat the actions laid out in subsections (1) to (3).”


Explanatory Text

<p>This new clause requires the Secretary of State to prepare and periodically review a strategy, setting out how the UK will use its influence in regional fisheries management organisations and other relevant bodies to deliver the objectives of the BBNJ Agreement in relation to fishing, including tackling illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in areas beyond national jurisdiction.</p>

20

Lord Teverson (LD)
Tabled: 5 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved

Clause 20, page 18, line 7, insert—<br> ““flag of convenience” , in relation to section (<i>Review on the impact and use of flags of convenience</i>), means the practice where a ship’s owner or owners register their ship or craft in a country different from their own, allowing the ship to fly the civil ensign of that country.”


Explanatory Text

<p>This consequential amendment defines the term “flag of convenience”.</p>

3rd December 2025
Amendment Paper
HL Bill 148 Running list of amendments – 3 December 2025

21

Baroness Coffey (Con)
Tabled: 3 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved

Clause 25, page 21, line 15, leave out “Except as provided in subsection (2),”


Explanatory Text

<p>This amendment, and others to Clause 25 in the name of Baroness Coffey, is designed to remove the need for further regulations ahead of ratification.</p>

22

Baroness Coffey (Con)
Tabled: 3 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved

Clause 25, page 21, line 17, leave out subsection (2)


Explanatory Text

<p>This amendment, and others to Clause 25 in the name of Baroness Coffey, is designed to remove the need for further regulations ahead of ratification.</p>

23

Baroness Coffey (Con)
Tabled: 3 Dec 2025
HL Bill 148-I Marshalled list for Grand Committee
This amendment was Not Moved

Clause 25, page 21, line 19, leave out subsection (3)


Explanatory Text

<p>This amendment, and others to Clause 25 in the name of Baroness Coffey, is designed to remove the need for further regulations ahead of ratification.</p>

2nd December 2025
2nd reading: Minutes of Proceedings (Lords)
2nd December 2025
2nd reading (Lords)
24th November 2025
Briefing papers
Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Bill: HL Bill 148 of 2024–26
18th November 2025
Bill
HL Bill 148 (as brought from the Commons)
18th November 2025
1st reading: Minutes of Proceedings (Lords)
18th November 2025
1st reading (Lords)
18th November 2025
Explanatory Notes
HL Bill 148 Explanatory Notes
17th November 2025
3rd reading (Commons)
17th November 2025
Committee of the whole House (Commons)
17th November 2025
Amendment Paper
Committee of the whole House Amendments as at as at 17 November 2025
17th November 2025
Bill proceedings: Commons
Committee of the whole House Proceedings as at 17 November 2025
17th November 2025
Selection of amendments: Commons
Provisional grouping of clauses and selection of Amendments by the Chairman of Ways and Means - 17 November 2025
14th November 2025
Amendment Paper
Notices of Amendments as at 14 November 2025
13th November 2025
Amendment Paper
Notices of Amendments as at 13 November 2025

4

Andrew Rosindell (Con) - Shadow Parliamentary Under Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs)
Tabled: 13 Nov 2025
Committee of the whole House Amendments as at as at 17 November 2025
This amendment was Negatived On Division
View the speech made in the House

Clause 7, page 5, line 4, at end insert- "A single report may be submitted for the purposes of sections 5(2)(c) and 6(3)(c), provided that any such single report meets the requirements in sections 5(3) and 6(4).”

5

Andrew Rosindell (Con) - Shadow Parliamentary Under Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs)
Tabled: 13 Nov 2025
Committee of the whole House Amendments as at as at 17 November 2025
This amendment was Negatived On Division
View the speech made in the House

Clause 12, page 9, line 2, at end insert- "(aa) relating to the charging of fees under section 11(3)(c),”

NC1

Andrew Rosindell (Con) - Shadow Parliamentary Under Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs)
Tabled: 13 Nov 2025
Committee of the whole House Amendments as at as at 17 November 2025
This amendment was Not Called

To move the following Clause— "Powers of the Secretary of State: review (1) Within three years beginning on the day on which this Act is passed, the Secretary of State must lay before Parliament a report on the exercise of powers conferred on them by virtue of this Act. (2) A report under this section must include- (a) a description of the powers used,s (b) the purposes for which they have been used, (c) an assessment of how effectively they have been used, (d) an assessment of how their use accords with the objectives of the Agreement."

NC2

Andrew Rosindell (Con) - Shadow Parliamentary Under Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs)
Tabled: 13 Nov 2025
Committee of the whole House Amendments as at as at 17 November 2025
This amendment was Not Called

To move the following Clause- "Reporting requirements relating to the Act (1) Before the end of the period of two years beginning on the day on which this Act is passed, and at least once every two years thereafter, the Secretary of State must lay before Parliament a report on the implementation and enforcement of the Act. (2) The report must include— (a) data on access to samples; (b) information relating to the number and nature of DSI views and downloads; (c) information about the amount and nature of enforcement actions taken; (d) an assessment of the impact of the Act on business, scientific research, and the fishing industry; (e) a summary of any regulatory changes made under the Act; (f) an assessment of the impact of any such regulatory changes.”

11th November 2025
Amendment Paper
Notices of Amendments as at 11 November 2025

1

Seema Malhotra (LAB) - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Tabled: 11 Nov 2025
Committee of the whole House Amendments as at as at 17 November 2025
This amendment was Agreed To

Clause 14, page 11, line 8, at end insert- "(za) in the heading omit “on the continental shelf”;"

2

Seema Malhotra (LAB) - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Tabled: 11 Nov 2025
Committee of the whole House Amendments as at as at 17 November 2025
This amendment was Agreed To

Clause 15, page 12, line 33, at end insert— "(ba) in paragraph (3A)— (i) after "(1)(b)” insert “or (1A)"; (ii) at the end insert “or person”;”

3

Seema Malhotra (LAB) - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)
Tabled: 11 Nov 2025
Committee of the whole House Amendments as at as at 17 November 2025
This amendment was Agreed To

Clause 24, page 21, line 12, after "modifications,” insert "to the Isle of Man or"

16th October 2025
2nd reading (Commons)
16th October 2025
Programme motion
16th October 2025
Ways and Means resolution
14th October 2025
Briefing papers
Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Bill (2024–25)
10th September 2025
Bill
Bill 302 2024-26 (as introduced)
10th September 2025
Bill
Bill 302 2024-26 (as introduced) - xml download
10th September 2025
1st reading (Commons)
10th September 2025
Impact Assessments
Area-Based Management Tools and Environmental Impact Assessment measures
10th September 2025
Delegated Powers Memorandum
Memorandum from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
10th September 2025
Explanatory Notes
Bill 302 EN 2024-26 (as introduced)
10th September 2025
Impact Assessments
Marine Genetic Resource Measures Impact Assessment