§ Mr. HardyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make it his policy not to seek to destroy or weaken the protection recently afforded to enclosure and hedgerows by the courts. [4104]
§ Mr. ClappisonThe Government published draft regulations for the protection of important hedgerows on 21 October 1996. As I explained in the answer that I gave to the hon. Member on 15 October 1996,Official Report, column 844, these regulations will not override restrictions imposed by other enactments or agreements, including enclosure awards. I understand that a judgment is still awaited in respect of the protection afforded to enclosure hedgerows in the case referred to.