Bycatch Risk Prioritisation Framework

Baroness Sugg Excerpts

Tuesday 21st July 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Hayman of Ullock (Lab)]

I am aware of the report that the noble Lord refers to. It is important to raise this, because we need to continue to work on it. Through the negotiations that we have, we always want to achieve the very best possible outcomes for the UK’s fishing industry. However, at the same time, we must recognise that we need sustainability alongside that. There are always challenges that we need to work through. We will continue to work closely with the industry to improve our scientific understanding and to have a better understanding of management measures to protect fish stocks and improve sustainability.

[Baroness Sugg (Con)]

My Lords, I note what the Minister said in her earlier answer about the complexity of this issue, but I want to ask about transparency, which is very important here. Will the Government publish the underlying evidence and risk assessments alongside the framework, so that Parliament, scientists and stakeholders can scrutinise how priorities have been determined?

[Baroness Hayman of Ullock (Lab)]

As we move towards publishing the frameworks, I am sure that we will be taking into mind the request that the noble Baroness has made.