Ministerial Responsibilities

HC Deb 17 June 1999 vol 333 c215W

Mr. David Stewart

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what effect devolution will have on ministerial responsibilities for forestry. [87666]

Dr. Reid

From 1 July 1999, Scottish Ministers in the Scottish Parliament will have responsibility for forestry in Scotland, the National Assembly for Wales will have responsibility for forestry in Wales, while the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food will continue to have responsibility for forestry in England.

The Prime Minister has agreed that the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food will also, from 1 July, assume responsibility for forestry issues affecting Great Britain as a whole. The Minister will, of course, consult Scottish Ministers and the National Assembly on such matters.

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland has responsibility for forestry in Northern Ireland.