§ Mr. Freemanasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received concerning possible amendments to the Town and Country Planning Act 1971 to strengthen protection for trees and woodlands.
§ Mr. WaldegraveWe have received representations recently from the Tree Council that the tree preservation order legislation should be strengthened. This will be considered as and when a suitable legislative opportunity occurs.
§ Mr. Freemanasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what statistics he collects on the maximum amount, and total number, of fines made under the tree preservation provisions of the Town and Country Planning Act 1971.
§ Mr. WaldegraveThe maximum levels of fines are laid down in the legislation, and these are amended from time to time. No statistics are kept of the number or level of fines imposed.