§ Mr. DafisTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has to introduce legislation to minimise clearfelling of native forests within the United Kingdom.
§ Sir Hector MonroI have been asked to reply.
The felling of trees and woodland in Great Britain is already effectively controlled through the licensing system operated by the Forestry Commission under the Forestry Act 1967. When considering applications for felling licences, the Commission follows a strict policy of protecting ancient and semi-natural woodlands, and operates a general presumption that felling licences will be granted only on condition that felled areas are replanted.