HC Deb 27 October 1995 vol 264 cc827-8W
Mr. Dafis

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment what representations and evidence he has received on the damage done to trees by cable television companies; and what action he is taking. [38206]

Mr. Clappison

In the light of widespread public concern about the effects on tree roots of cable and utility companies trenching activities, guidelines to help minimise damage were published by the National Joint Utilities Group in April. To help inform a review of the guidelines, after six months' experience of their operation, the Government have invited local authorities in particular to submit comments on how well the guidelines are working by the end of October.