Written question asked by Lord Maginnis of Drumglass (Crossbench), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Baroness Andrews (Labour) on Wednesday, 6 December 2006.

Trees

Question: asked Her Majesty's Government:What is the maximum possible penalty in cases in which (a) one tree is subject to a tree preservation order; (b) 10 such trees are destroyed; and (c) more than 10 such trees are destroyed.

Answer: The maximum penalty, in the magistrates' court for unlawfully destroying a tree protected by a tree preservation order is a fine of £20,000. The maximum penalty in cases where 10, or more than 10, trees are destroyed is £20,000 per tree. Alternatively, cases may be pursued in the Crown Court, where the fine is unlimited. In determining the level of any fine, both courts are required to have regard to any financial benefit that accrues as a consequence of the offence.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 464; 687 c146-7WA
Session: 2006-07
Related items: Trees
Tuesday, 9 January 2007
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects: Fines Nature conservation Tree felling Trees Tree preservation orders
Contains statistics: Yes
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk