Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if she will ensure that the UK continues to comply with the (a) Bathing Waters Directive and (b) Marine Strategy Framework Directive when the UK leaves the EU.

In the 2015 Manifesto, we set the goal of being the first generation to leave the natural environment in England in a better state than we found it. We remain committed to this ambition.

Defra will be working with the Department for Exiting the EU on the UK’s withdrawal and future relationship, liaising closely with other key departments. The Government will work with industry, environmental groups and the public to develop these new arrangements. The Government is committed to improving our environment and achieving the UK vision for our seas and oceans.

Until we leave the EU, EU law continues to apply and we will continue to comply with the requirements of the EU Bathing Water Directive and Marine Strategy Framework Directive.