§ Mr. DafisTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps he proposes to ensure that the review of the Countryside Commission and English Nature does not delay the implementation of measures to conserve biodiversity in the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. AtkinsThe Government published the first United Kingdom biodiversity action plan on 25 January. The study into bringing together English Nature and the Countryside Commission is being conducted in the light of our commitments to biodiversity and sustainable development, on which we are determined to make early and sustained progress. Bringing together these two bodies will ensure that institutional arrangements assist with the delivery of those objectives. It will be important to ensure that the study does not cause a loss of momentum in carrying forward the policies and programmes of either of the two agencies concerned. It is for that reason that I aim to complete it within six months.