Written question asked by Gareth Thomas (Labour) on Wednesday, 15 November 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 21 November 2000. It was answered by Chris Mullin (Labour) on Tuesday, 21 November 2000 on behalf of the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions.

Dept of the Environment Transport and the Regions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, what further action he is taking to protect ancient woodlands. - Inc ref to Circular 36-78.

Answer: Mr. Gareth R. Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what further action he is taking to protect ancient woodlands. [139260] Mr. Mullin: The planning system continues to take account of ancient woodlands and the habitats they provide for a wide range of flora and fauna. PPG9 on nature conservation is to be revised once the Countryside and Rights of Way Bill receives Royal Assent. Recommendations on how best to replace the existing advice on trees and woods contained in Circular 36-78 will be made as part of the work of the Forestry Forum chaired by my hon. Friend the Minister for Fisheries and the Countryside.

Secondary information