§ Mr. HinchliffeTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what action he proposes to take to promote the development of natural woodlands. [12584]
§ Mr. Kynoch[holding answer 3 February 1997]: The protection and enhancement of our ancient and semi-natural woodlands is a key aim of our forestry policy. We are committed to the steady expansion of tree cover, using native species and natural regeneration where appropriate, with the support of the woodland grant scheme and the farm woodland premium scheme. We have also recently introduced woodland improvement grants and challenge funds for forestry projects to help further achieve these aims and significant funds have been provided by the Millennium Commission for a range of native woodland projects through the country. In addition, schemes in the Government's agri-environment programme such as the environmentally sensitive area scheme and the countryside stewardship and proposed countryside premium schemes, provide payments to farmers to manage native woodlands and for planting of native species.