VerbatimParliament, as it happens

British Indian Ocean Territory: Sharks

Asked by Andrew RosindellReform UKForeign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeTabled Answered 7 July 2026UIN 13779

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps her Department is taking to protect the British Indian Ocean Territory Marine Protected Area from illegal shark poaching.

Answered by Stephen Doughty

The British Indian Ocean Territory is constitutionally distinct and separate from the UK, with its own laws and Administration. It is administered by the British Indian Ocean Territory Administration (BIOTA) who have responsibility for the protection of the Marine Protected Area, including issues relating to illegal unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim