(1)An area may be designated by a designation order as a Demonstration and Research MPA if the Scottish Ministers consider it desirable to do so for any of the following purposes—
(a)demonstration of sustainable methods of marine management or exploitation,
(b)research into such matters.
(2)The order must state—
(a)whether it is for the purpose of demonstration or research, or both,
(b)the method or methods of marine management or exploitation to be demonstrated or researched.
(3)In considering whether to designate an area, the Scottish Ministers may—
(a)have regard in particular to the views of any relevant delegate as to the desirability of demonstrating or researching sustainable methods of marine management or exploitation in the area,
(b)have regard to any social or economic consequences of designation.
(4)For the purposes of subsection (3)(a), a “relevant delegate” means any delegate designated in a direction under section 12(1)(b) to exercise functions in relation to a regional marine plan for the Scottish marine region in which any part of the proposed Demonstration and Research MPA lies.