HC Deb 16 June 1988 vol 135 cc233-4W
Mr. Roy Hughes

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if there are any estimates of the amount of hedgerows grubbed up in Wales in the last year.

Mr. Wyn Roberts

The information requested is not available.

Mr. Roy Hughes

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales (1) if there are any guidelines issued to prevent the loss of hedgerows in the Welsh countryside;

(2) what action he proposes to take to combat the loss of the natural fauna and flora found in hedgerows.

Mr. Wyn Roberts

The Government are anxious to prevent the loss of hedgerows and, as such, grant-aid for their removal was completely withdrawn in 1983. At the same time higher rates of grant were introduced for the provision, replacement and improvement of hedges. The Agricultural Development Advisory Service has produced a number of leaflets giving guidance on hedgerow management and can advise on their value both for agriculture and conservation purposes. The Department also gives guidance to highway authorities on methods of managing roadside hedges which are sympathetic to the needs of the resident flora and fauna.

Mr. Roy Hughes

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what action he proposes to take to combat the accelerated erosion of soil surrounding hedgerows which have been grubbed up.

Mr. Wyn Roberts

I am not aware of any particular problems in Wales of accelerated erosion of soil surrounding hedgerows which have been grubbed up. I understand this is a problem mainly associated with the arable areas of East Anglia.

Mr. Peter Walker

The numbers of farm workers employed in each county, in June 1987 are given in the following table: