HC Deb 16 May 1996 vol 277 c571W
Mr. Home Robertson

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the Forestry Commission's policies for the protection of old native woodlands; and if he will call for a report on the application for a felling licence for oak trees in Pressmennan wood. [28713]

Mr. Kynoch

We are committed to protecting our ancient and semi-natural woodlands, the most important of which have been designated as national nature reserves and sites of special scientific interest.

The Forestry Commission is currently considering an application for tree felling and replanting in Pressmennan wood. The commission has consulted Scottish Natural Heritage and East Lothian district council over the proposals, and will take account of the comments it receives from these bodies and any other organisations and individuals before making a decision on the application.