HL Deb 11 May 1982 vol 430 cc211-2WA
Lord Melchett

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What steps have been taken to integrate the conflicting requirements of nature conservation and agricultural and forestry development and intensification proposed in the Western Isles Integrated Development Programme (IDP), what sums have been specifically put aside for this purpose, and what percentage does this represent of total expenditure on the IDP.

The Earl of Mansfield

The Nature Conservancy Council was fully consulted when the programme was being prepared, and it should not be assumed that the programme content necessarily implies conflict. However the council will continue to be consulted on any individual projects which may be proposed under the programme and which imply any risk to nature conservation interests. It is not possible to quantify the resources needed to protect these interests until and unless proposals implying risk are made, but the council is seeking funding to increase its advisory service in the area.