HL Deb 29 March 1983 vol 440 cc1552-3WA
Lord Melchett asked Her Majesty's

Government:

Whether they will confirm that, during continued discussions on the protection of parts of the Somerset Levels which are of high nature conservation interest, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF) will encourage farmers to seek prior approval for proposed work in areas of nature conservation interest, whether or not the land concerned has been notified by the Nature Conservancy Council (NCC) as an SSSI, and whether MAFF will continue to consult the NCC over grant-aidable schemes likely to damage such areas.

Earl Ferrers

Section 11 of the Countryside Act 1968 requires the Minister, in exercising his functions relating to land, to have regard to the natural beauty and amenity of the countryside. Accordingly, officials of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food continue, where appropriate, to encourage farmers to consult the Nature Conservancy Council about proposed agricultural works, whether or not they intend to claim grant.

Before making a decision on any grant cases which are referred to the Minister, he will, as usual, consult the Secretary of State for the Environment.