After a decade of campaigning we can finally celebrate. Today, 12th November 2009, the UK Marine and Coastal Access Bill receives Royal Assent and becomes law. The UK's marine wildlife above and below the waves surrounding England and Wales, and in offshore waters around the whole UK, should now be afforded the level of protection that it so desperately needs.
Thank you to everyone who backed our campaign and help push this important legislation through Parliament. We know that RSPB supporters have played a big part in making this law a reality. Quite simply we could not acheived such a fantastic result without your support. Its time to celebrate and be proud.
The focus of the campaign now moves to ensuring that the Act is put into practice so that our marine wildlife and seabirds are protected and safeguarded for future generations.
We will be continuing our campaigns for a strong Scottish Marine Bill and the introduction of a Marine Bill for Northern Ireland's inshore waters.