§ Mr. EdwardsTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he will announce his proposals concerning areas of outstanding natural beauty. [105471]
§ Mr. MullinFunding increases for Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) have already been announced. The Countryside Agency has an additional £2.5 million in the current financial year for their management and conservation, rising by a further £1 million in 2000–01, which will bring the Agency's budget for AONBs to £5.7 million.
My right hon. Friend the Minister for the Environment expects to make an announcement soon on further proposals to strengthen the protection and management of AONBs.