§ John McDonnellTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what action the Government are taking to protect ancient forests. [56441]
§ Mr. MorleyA number of measures are in place to protect all forests in the UK, including ancient semi-natural woodlands, where the biodiversity and cultural heritage values are the highest. In particular, the felling of any type of woodland is controlled through felling regulations. Additionally, many woodlands are subject to further controls because they are within designated areas such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest or Special Areas of Conservation.