Woodland Management: Forestry Commission Support (Hansard, 26 April 2001)

§ The Minister of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Baroness Hayman)

Woodland makes an important contribution to the rural economy and is essential to the character of the English countryside. However, many of our woods are undermanaged and are not delivering the potential range of benefits to their owners or to society as a whole. The Forestry Commission plays a key role in ensuring the sustainable management of our woodland.

The commission has been asked to review its support for the sustainable management of existing woodland in accordance with the priorities of the Government's Forestry Strategy for England and in the light of the UK Forestry Standard.

The review will help to focus the Commission's work on finding ways to engage woodland owners effectively in implementing the England Forestry Strategy. This will help owners to sustain their own plans while supporting the rural economy and improving the environment for the benefit of all. While the review will consider the effectiveness of existing Forestry Commission grant schemes, we are keen to see ideas emerging on the whole range of support measures through partnerships, advice, training and market development.

The review will be managed by a steering group including woodland owners and managers and representatives from appropriate government departments and agencies, as well as from Wildlife and Countryside Link. Anthony Bosanquet, president of the CLA and a non-executive Forestry Commissioner, will chair the steering group. There will be widespread public consultation, including a series of regional seminars later this year.

The Commission has been asked to submit its recommendations to Her Majesty's Government within 12 months.