§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans he has to encourage permaculture within national parks in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement. [2355]
§ Mr. MossPermaculture is a system of natural agriculture, requiring generous mulching, no artificial fertilisers, use of natural resources and only minimal weeding. It is an ecosystem-based method of production, with some similarities to organic methods.
The Nature Conservation and Amenity Lands (Northern Ireland) Order 1985 provides for national parks to be established, but none have been, nor are there any plans to introduce them.
The Secretary of State is recommended to make the following statement:
There are no plans to encourage permaculture in national parks in Northern Ireland as there are no such parks.
§ Mr. JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what estimates he has made of how many farms or holdings are operating on permaculture principles; and if he will make a statement. [2361]
§ Mr. AncramThere are no UK registers of farms or holdings operating on permaculture principles. There are 10 UK-registered organic producers in Northern Ireland.