§ Mr. Chapmanasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement on arrangements to ensure the conservation of broadleaved woodlands and on felling licence regulations.
§ Mr. John MacKayI have been asked to reply.
The Government set out a comprehensive policy for the conservation and enhancement of broadleaved woodlands in a statement by my right hon. Friend, the Member for Ayr (Mr. Younger), on 24 July 1985 at columns 557–562.
In line with the statement, felling controls were tightened in December 1985 to reduce the volume of timber which may be felled witthout a licence. The Forestry Act 1986 also empowered the Forestry Commission to require restocking following illegal felling.