§ Lieut.-Colonel Bolesasked the Minister of Town and Country Planning whether he is aware that widespread tree felling is taking place with devastating effect in Hodders Combe, a beautiful valley of the Quantock Hills on the Quantoxhead side; to what extent it is intended to continue this high-speed clear felling; with what trees it is intended to replace the natural beech and oak; whether consideration 3W has been given to the fact that this is part of the proposed Exmoor National Park; and whether he gave approval to the felling before it was begun.
§ Mr. SilkinSo far as I am aware the tree felling in the area referred to is not at present on an extensive scale and the area is not likely to be cleared of timber in the near future. The area licensed for felling is Lady's Edge, Black Ball Wood and part of Bircham Wood, and forms part of a much larger area over which the Forestry Commission are negotiating a lease. Under the lease the subsequent regeneration of the woods would be undertaken by the Forestry Commission who would have full regard to amenity and to the desirability of some hardwood planting. At this stage it is not possible to say the species of trees which would be planted in specific areas. Further felling of the timber can be prevented only if a Tree Preservation Order is in operation. The Somerset County Council have submitted a draft order which I am now considering.