HC Deb 26 May 1976 vol 912 cc235-6W
33. Mr. Andrew F. Bennett

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps the Government are taking to encourage the widest possible use for recreational purposes of all areas of outstanding natural beauty in the United Kingdom, and to reduce the overcrowding and destruction by over-use of a few famous beauty spots.

Mr. Guy Barnett

The Countryside Commission, as part of its general duty to encourage and assist the provision and improvement of facilities for the enjoyment of the countryside and for open air recreation, pays particular regard to the desirability of relieving visitor pressure on more fragile or over-used areas of the countryside. My right hon. Friend is not responsible for countryside matters in Scotland or Northern Ireland.