§ Mr. Fauldsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received from the Nature Conservancy Council about the designation of wetlands as conservation areas.
§ Mr. Denis HowellNone since the original list was compiled. But my Department is in continuous contact450W with the council on all nature conservation matters.
§ Mr. Fauldsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he intends to designate further wetlands as conservation areas, in view of the fact that only 15 of about 100 wetlands considered to be of international importance have been so recognised thus far.
§ Mr. Denis HowellThe Nature Conservancy Council is currently discussing with ornithological organisations the possible designation of further wetlands in accordance with the provisions of the International Convention on Wetlands.
§ Mr. Fauldsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what action he intends following the designation by the Council of Europe 1976 as European Wetlands Year.
§ Mr. Denis HowellThe Nature Conservancy Council has set up a United Kingdom Committee to co-ordinate the efforts of those involved in managing and using wetlands and to act as a focus for the European Wetlands Year campaign. The council has produced bulletins and other promotional and educational material and an exhibition is touring museums. Examples of this material, including a small display, will be placed in the Library.