§ 6. Mr. Moyleasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he is satisfied that the present powers under tree preservation orders are adequate far as town and country amenity is concerned; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. SkeffingtonYes, Sir. The Civic Amenities Act, 1967, strengthened and added to existing powers, increasing the maximum penalty for unauthorised felling, requiring the replacement of trees which die or are cut down, and the preservation or replanting of trees affected by new development.
§ Mr. MoyleWill my hon. Friend accept that the enthusiasm of the public for this part of the Civic Amenities Act will increase to the extent to which they can see action taken in their own areas? Will he undertake to ensure that these powers are used as vigorously as possible?
§ Mr. SkeffingtonI am happy to give that assurance. We sent an explanatory communication to the local authorities urging them to use these new powers.