§ Lord Melchettasked Her Majesty's Government:
What was the total area of the Swale SSSI in Kent at 1st January 1981, what is its area likely to be after the site has been re-notified; and what are the reasons for any change in the area.
§ Lord SkelmersdaleThe area of the Swale SSSI at 1st January 1981 was 6,346 hectares; I am advised that the area of the SSSI upon re-notification under Section 28 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 will be 5,979 hectares. The re-notified SSSI will exclude those areas of arable farmland which, in the NCC's opinion, are no longer of sufficient nature conservation interest.