§ Mr. Nicholas BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps he takes to ensure that claims for the addition of rights of way to the definitive maps are considered in their historic, geographical and social context and against the background of any old map or other evidence available.
§ Mr. MoynihanThe role of my right hon. Friend in relation to the addition of rights of way to definitive maps is confined to the determination of opposed orders made by surveying authorities, and appeals against the refusal of applications for such an order. In exercising those responsibilities he is obliged to take into consideration all evidence submitted by the parties insofar as it relates to the existence of the alleged right of way.