HC Deb 06 June 1980 vol 985 cc847-8W
Mr. Skinner

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what discussions he has had with local housing authorities regarding the use of solid fuel or the inclusion of chimneys in newly constructed dwellings.

Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg

None. The choice of heating fuels and the decision whether or not to include a flue in newly-constructed local authority dwellings is responsibility of the national park boards and committees. Their policies in this respect are published in the national park plans.

Commercial afforestation is undertaken and promoted by the Forestry Commission under my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. Proposals in national parks are subject to agreed consultation procedures which ensure that proper account is taken of the park interest.

Mr. Nicholas Winterton

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what are the present sizes in acres of every national park in England; what was the grant to each park in 1979; and what is the grant for 1980 for each park.

Mr. Monro

The figures are:

a matter for each housing authority in the light of its knowledge of local needs and circumstances.