"Access to the Open Countryside"

HC Deb 19 October 1998 vol 317 cc905-6W

Mr. Tipping

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many responses he has received to his consultation paper, "Access to the Open Countryside in England and Wales". [55486]

Mr. Meacher

My Department has received over 2,000 formal responses to the consultation paper.

Mr. Willis

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what progress is being made to improve access to the countryside; and what plans he has for legislation on access to open land. [55020]

Mr. Meacher

The Government are considering carefully responses to the consultation paper, "Access to the Open Countryside in England and Wales". We are examining all options, both statutory and voluntary, for achieving greater access. We shall announce our conclusions as soon as possible.