§ 49. Mr. Scott-Hopkinsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will review the level of mineral extraction, excluding coal, in England and Wales; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerDevelopment plans take into account the needs for mineral working and are kept under review. If my hon. Friend has a particular aspect in mind perhaps he will write to me.
§ Mr. Scott-HopkinsDoes my right hon. Friend agree that, unhappily, most mineral extractions occur in parts of the country which are extremely beautiful, with disastrous results? Will he look into this and consider whether there should be a restriction on the quantity of minerals extracted, particularly in the national parks?
§ Mr. WalkerThis is a difficult question of balance. I have already rejected applications for mineral workings in certain areas of natural beauty.