Sandeel fishing - closure proposals: strategic environmental assessment - post adoption statement

8. Conclusion

Following consideration of all responses and representations received, the Scottish Government has concluded that the preferred option to close fishing for sandeel in all Scottish waters is the most appropriate approach to achieve its aims, noting that the potential environmental benefits outweigh any negative impacts.

In reaching this decision, the Scottish Government has applied the precautionary principle to its decision making and ensured alignment with national and international commitments, including, but not limited to, the UK-EU TCA, Scotland's National Marine Plan, Scotland's Fisheries Management Strategy, the UK Joint Fisheries Statement, the Fisheries Act 2020 and the Marine Strategy Regulations 2010.

The decision has been made to not publish an updated Environmental Report as all comments received have been incorporated into this post-adoption statement as well as the Scottish Government response^[14].