§ Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps he is taking to ensure the protection of orchards containing rare varieties of apples; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Heathcoat-AmoryCurrently we are engaged in a wide-ranging review of tree preservation policies and legislation. A consultation exercise will be launched shortly, providing an opportunity for comments on this and other issues to be considered in that broader context. In addition, I understand that my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food continues to fund the national fruit collection at Brogdale which contains some 2,300 varieties of apple.