§ 17. Mr. David Clarkasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received concerning the lack of public access to the moors in the Peak District National Park in the vicinity of Meltham.
§ Mr. Graham PageI have received rep-representations about the lack of public access in the vicinity of Meltham from four local organisations and two individuals.
§ Mr. ClarkIs the Minister aware that for centuries the public have had access to these moors within the National Park but now find that in this age of increasing leisure, by means of fences and signs they are being prohibited from having access? Will the hon. Gentleman consider making an access order for this piece of moorland?
§ Mr. PageIt is difficult for me to talk about the merits of this case because it may go to my right hon. Friend on appeal. The Peak District National Park 1326 Planning Board expects shortly to advertise and to submit to my right hon. Friend under the statutory procedures a map showing the extent of public access in the National Park, and my right hon. Friend will consider any representations that may be made about that map. I suggest to the hon. Gentleman that that is the stage at which representations should be made.
§ Mr. J. P. W. MallalieuIs the hon. Gentleman aware that this stretch of land is some of the best walking country in these islands and that it would be a tragedy if it were to be enclosed, thus stopping literally thousands of people from enjoying these areas, for the benefit of a comparatively few who want to poop off guns?
§ Mr. PageI trust that the hon. Gentleman will forgive me if I do not answer the case on its merits. My right hon. Friend is in a quasi judicial capacity, although he gave an undertaking when answering Questions recently that he would consider this overall question of access to parks. He has considered it with the N.F.U. and the Country Landowners' Association, and the Countryside Commission is considering the results of that consultation.