HC Deb 25 April 1988 vol 132 cc16-7
30. Mr. Chapman

To ask the right hon. Member for Selby, as representing the Church Commissioners, what plans the Church Commissioners have to replace trees recently lost on their lands and to contribute to broad-leaved woodland planting schemes.

Mr. Michael Alison (Second Church Estates Commissioner, Representing Church Commissioners)

In the areas affected by the October hurricane the Church Commissioners propose to undertake replanting mainly in the 1988–89 season. It is the Commissioners' policy to maintain and enhance the plantations on their agricultural estates. They are considering the scope for establishing new broadleaved plantations in accordance with current EC and Government grant schemes and initiatives.

Mr. Chapman

As most of the damage to Church property during the October hurricane was caused to trees on land owned by the Church Commissioners, my right hon. Friend's answer will be widely welcomed. May I commend to him that the Church plays an even more active part this year in National Tree Week, which is to be organised by the Tree Council in November, by going ahead with its replanting schemes on a massive scale during that month?

Mr. Alison

I note with appreciation my hon. Friend's comments. He may like to know that the Church Commissioners planted over 10,000 trees in 1987. Because of the damage caused by the hurricane, we expect to plant a great many more.