§ Kate HoeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what account she takes of sport and recreational interests when appointing members of the National Parks Authority. [117105]
§ Alun MichaelAs set out in the Environment Act 1995, the purposes of National Parks are to conserve and enhance their natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage; and to promote the public understanding and enjoyment of their special qualities. In pursuing these purposes National Park Authorities have a duty to seek to foster the economic and social well being of communities within the National Park.
Candidates for membership of a National Park Authority are welcomed from all backgrounds. We expect those appointed by the Secretary of State to represent the national interest, including the views of people not living in or near the Parks; to work to achieve both the Parks' purposes; we encourage them bring experience of wider issues, such as an interest in outdoor recreation or sport or business conservation. In making appointments, we seek to ensure members collectively have a range of interests which cover all the Authority's activities.