HC Deb 30 March 1961 vol 637 c1527
57. Mr. Hayman

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he and the Forestry Commission were consulted about the intention of Economic Forestry, Limited to plant part of High House Moor, in the Dartmoor National Park, this autumn; and what action he took.

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. W. M. F. Vane)

Yes, Sir. The company is negotiating with the Forestry Commission for a dedication agreement in the ordinary way, and my right hon. Friend does not propose to intervene.

Mr. Hayman

Is the Minister aware that Economic Forestry, Limited, propose to plant some acres of High House Moor this autumn although the Dartmoor National Park Committee is utterly opposed to the proposal? This seeems to be a violation of the agreement reached last January. Will the Minister look into the matter?

Mr. Vane

I do not think that the acreage in question is really so very large. The hon. Member has referred to a voluntary agreement which was entered into recently between all the parties concerned. This was spoken about at length by my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government last night, and I do not think that I can add to what he then said.

Mr. Hayman

But will the hon. Gentleman take into account that this is a very exposed part of Dartmoor, and, therefore, it should be preserved as a part of the normal features of the landscape, not being violated by planting?

Mr. Vane

That, I think, is largely a matter of opinion.