§ Mr. Paul MarsdenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to give greater protection to sites of special scientific interest; and if he will make a statement. [90176]
§ Mr. MealeOur proposals for giving greater protection to sites of special scientific interest were set out in the Government consultation paper "Sites of Special Scientific Interest—Better Protection and Management" issued in September 1998. We have recognised the need to give thorough consideration to the most effective measures we can introduce, and will be announcing our conclusions shortly.