The European Community Directive on Habitats applied to the United Kingdom continental shelf, and was not restricted in its effect to the territorial limit of 12 miles. The Secretary of State in granting licences for the exploration of such waters for oil without regard to the Directive was acting unlawfully. Such activities could only be undertaken after giving consideration to the protection of threatened marine species.
Citations:
Times 19-Jan-2000
Statutes:
Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild flora and fauna
European, Environment
Updated: 09 April 2022; Ref: scu.85542
