<p>DFID is aware of the proposal for a Marine Protected Area (MPA) which has been submitted by the Pew Charitable Trust to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office for consideration.</p><p>Work is currently underway to explore and assess all potential economic opportunities available to the Pitcairn Islanders, and this includes a MPA. The preliminary assessment suggests that there is not likely to be any significant economic benefit to declaring an MPA, whilst the costs of enforcing it may be significant. The UK Government is committed to working with Pitcairn Island Government and with partner organisations to ensure the sustainable management of Pitcaim's marine environment.</p>