With the often heated debate over Marine Conservation Zones (MCZs) in the United Kingdom about to enter the public arena once again, Environment Minister Richard Benyon has issued a formal statement in which he has laid down the facts a from the government’s veiwpoint.

“As part of the government’s commitment to implementing in full the provisions of the Marine and Coastal Access Act, we are creating a network of national protected areas in British seas to ensure our underwater wildlife flourishes in years to come.