§ Andrew BennettTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps English Nature is taking(a) to ensure that Gait Barrows National Nature Reserve is not damaged by the Lunesdale Hunt and (b) to control the effects of hunting. [9602]
§ Alun MichaelFollowing incidents at Gait Barrows National Nature Reserve in February this year, which were brought to the attention of the Lancashire constabulary, English Nature wrote to the chairman of the Lunesdale Hunt requesting a full explanation of the incidents, and withdrew permission for the Hunt to enter the Reserve. A meeting with the chairman of the Hunt in March was postponed due to the foot and mouth outbreak. English Nature hope this will be held shortly, and will discuss the operation of the Hunt in the vicinity of National Nature Reserves generally and Gait Barrows in particular.
I understand the physical damage to the site has since recovered.