For the avoidance of any doubt my Department has absolutely no plans for a general cull of seals as stated in the PQ response of Sept 15th & 23rd & I would not sign off on any pilot scheme which would involve fishermen shooting seals from a boat.

I accept fishermen in a number of coastal areas have concerns & that’s why a small number of section 42 licences have been granted over the years

There may be a need for innovative solutions but that does not involve a general cull or controlled pilot cull of seals which are protected under the EU Habitats Directive.