§ Mr. MorleyTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what preparations his Department is making in terms of the impact of the EC habitats directive and its effect on agriculture in this country; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. SoamesWhile the implementation of the EC habitats directive is primarily a matter for the Secretary of State for the Environment, the consultations between our Departments will ensure that the implications for agriculture are taken into account. There will be full public consultation on the Government's proposals.