§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to create a Loch Lomond national park; and if he will make a statement. [3260]
§ Mr. ChisholmWe are committed to put in place a proper system for the management of our areas of outstanding beauty, of which Loch Lomond is a prime example, which is both tailored to Scottish circumstances and consistent with the highest international standards. The Loch Lomond and the Trossachs Steering Committee consulted earlier this year on future management arrangements for the area. My noble Friend the Minister for Agriculture, the Environment and Fisheries in Scotland is to meet representatives from the Steering Committee to discuss their proposals for the establishment of a Joint Committee. We are also currently considering the many responses received to the Discussion Paper issued at the end of last year, following the Review of Natural Heritage Designations, before reaching decisions on the need for changes to the present system, such as the introduction of National Parks in Scotland.