§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what representations have been made to him by the board of the Countryside Council for Wales requesting additional moneys to ensure it meets its statutory obligations; and if he will make a statement. [28476]
§ Mr. RedwoodI am satisfied, as is the Countryside Council for Wales, that it has sufficient funds to fulfil its statutory duties. Written requests for additional funding were made on 27 February and 9 March. These requests were discussed fully in a meeting I held on 24 May with the chairman and chief executive of the Countryside Council for Wales. At the meeting, I asked the council to further reduce its overheads and to come forward with imaginative schemes using new technology to encourage home working. I have said that £325,000 of capital is available for a suitable scheme. In addition, I have also made available an extra £200,000 for new work to be undertaken on the EC habitats directive and on a study into the effects of overgrazing in Wales. The council has agreed to reduce its overheads by £1.96 million this year.