MEMBERSHIP OF NATIONAL PARK AUTHORITIES (Hansard, 30 July 1981)

§ Mr. Andrew F. Bennett

We should at least put it on the record that there is a little concern about the balance of representation on national park authorities. I can well understand the pressure that the Minister has been under to ensure that representatives of district councils are included, but it is important that we maintain the national aspect and retain a balance between those who are on the authorities to represent the interests of people within the park and those who are on it to represent the national interest.

One-quarter of the money raised to pay for the work of the national park authorities comes from local sources and three-quarters comes from national sources. Therefore, we should make sure that there is at least three-quarters representation of national interests rather than local interests.

Although I very much welcome the provision for district councillors to be included, it should be made clear that if we tilt the balance too far in favour of the local interests, away from national interests, we should examine the way in which the national parks are funded. As they are of national as well as local importance, we must protect the national representation.