§ Lord Melchettasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are aware that a further 200–250 acres of Tealham and Tadham Moors in Somerset have been underdrained, in an area that is recognised by the Nature Conservancy Council (NCC) as being of sufficient scientific importance to be notified as a site of Special Scientific Interest and whether they will immediately extend the order they have made under Section 29 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1982 to protect 70 acres nearby, to cover this further area.
§ Lord SkelmersdaleAn order under Section 29 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act was made on 23rd March over 70 acres of Tealham and Tadham Moors, Somerset. The NCC are currently discussing a possible management agreement with the owners. I understand that a further 86 acres of land nearby has been underdrained, partly by the same owners. The Act does not provide for Section 29 orders to be extended. The NCC have not requested an order over this second area.