§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what assessment he has made of the impact on indigenous species of trees of the import for planting of seeds of those same species. [61898]
§ Mr. MacdonaldSeed and planting stock of many indigenous tree species, including oak, have been imported into Britain from continental Europe for several centuries. Much of this material is well adapted to British conditions with the result that it can be very difficult to identify trees which are truly of native origin. Scientists are developing methods for identifying the origin of indigenous species. For example, analysis of the chemical constituents of native Scots pine has identified seven distinct areas of pine in Scotland.
Our advice to woodland owners reflects the importance of using suitable seed sources for planting trees in Britain, and particularly for regenerating and extending semi-natural woodlands. The UK Forestry Standard states that landowners should use suitable local provenances if they are available, and the Forestry Commission has published guidelines which emphasise the value of using natural regeneration or plants derived from local seed sources. The Commission is also drawing up a scheme to encourage foresters to grow planting stock from locally sourced indigenous species of trees and shrubs.