§ Mr. Onslowasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what guidance he has issued to local authorities on the felling of dead or diseased elm trees.
§ Mr. Denis HowellGeneral guidance on the felling of trees affected by the aggressive strain of Dutch elm disease and on measures to prevent its spread to the lightly affected areas has been issued to local authorities by the Forestry Commission. I have also arranged for guidance to be issued on the inspection of highway trees. In relation to land that they own, local authorities will no doubt give priority to the felling of dangerous trees. Felling on private land is the responsibility of the owner, with such assistance as authorities are empowered and prepared to give within existing financial constraints.