§ Mr. PaiceTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what is his Department's policy towards the use of the Sandford Principle in protecting national parks. [38981]
§ Angela EagleSection 62 of the Environment Act 1995 reflects the Sandford Principle. It places a general duty on all relevant authorities to have regard to National Park purposes and, if it appears that there is a conflict between them, requires that greater weight be attached to the purpose of conserving and enhancing the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the National Park. My Department's policy is to promote this legislation.