§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what action he is taking over the agrochemicals company Fisons in respect of damage to(a) over 60 acres of peat bog at Thorne moors and Hatfield moor near Doncaster and (b) 62 acres on the north-west of Thorne moors; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TrippierI am advised by the Nature Conservancy Council that:
(a) The incident of damage to some 62 acres of peat bog occurred some two years ago. Contrary to recent media reports, the NCC has resolved the issue by discussion with Fisons plc. Negotiations to establish a nature reserve agreement over an area of land with the required potential for restoration are under way.
(b) Fisons plc is operating on Thorne moors with the benefit of planning consent. The NCC and Fisons plc have made considerable progress towards an agreed plan of working and restoration methods to be used. It would be a matter of considerable regret if precipitate action by either party should jeopardise this dialogue.