§ Mr. Beithasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will bring forward proposals to ensure that the importance of the area as wildlife habitat is one of the criteria taken into account when considering applications for major development and reclamation.
§ Mr. Guy BarnettThis has been done. The importance of nature conservation and concern that it should be fully taken into account when planning decisions are taken were expressed in circular 108/77. My right hon. Friend looks to local authorities to take full account of nature conservation factors both in formulating structure and local plans and in the consideration of individual planning applications.