HC Deb 09 June 1993 vol 226 cc277-8W
26. Mrs. Gorman

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what recent discussions he has held on the future of the Forestry Commission.

Sir Hector Monro

My right hon. Friend regularly meets individuals and organisations with interests in forestry to hear their views and discuss matters of mutual concern. In these discussions, issues such as the future of the Forestry Commission naturally arise.

Mr. Chris Smith

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether primary legislation is required if a decision is made to privatise the Forestry Commission in whole or part.

Sir Hector Monro

[holding answer 26 May 1993]: Ministers have come to no decisions about the effectiveness of the current incentives for forestry investment or the ownership and management of Forestry Commission woodlands, which are the subject of review. Only once they have done so would they consider any consequent requirements for primary legislation.