To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether proposed changes to the number and boundaries of sea fisheries committees may proceed only (a) after consultation with and (b) with the support of home sea fisheries committees affected by the proposals. (133771)

As outlined in the current Marine Bill White Paper, I have asked my officials to undertake a review of the number and boundaries of Sea Fisheries Committees (SFCs) in England and to pursue measures in the Marine Bill to implement any change. The review will take place later this year in consultation with the SFCs, the fishing industry and with other interested parties. I will examine the outcome of that review before deciding on any changes to the number and boundaries of SFCs in England.