§ Ms WalleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what input his Department will have in respect of the selection and designation of marine special protection areas and special areas of conservation; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NorrisThe nature conservation agencies through the Joint Nature Conservation Committee, will be advising the Government on which areas may be considered for designation as special areas of conservation. The Department of Transport, together with other Departments, will be fully involved in discussing these proposals prior to public consultation. Work to identify special protection areas has been going on for some time. The Department of Transport will be consulted before any areas are designated.