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Natural Environment and Rural Communities Bill

I do not think that there is any disagreement between what the Minister said in another place and what I am saying tonight. There is certainly not intended to be. I am choosing my words with some care on this issue. The confederation which will form Natural England is discussing a draft strategy with stakeholders, which was provided to Standing Committee A in another place. I will ensure that it is given to noble Lords if they would like to see it. Naturally, the confederation cannot take this process far until the board of Natural England has been appointed. It will be for it then to consult on how it will approach difficult decisions on priorities. I have a number of answers to some of the points made by noble Lords, but I think I have spoken for quite long enough and set out—I hope clearly—the Government’s position on this important issue. On that basis, I invite the noble Baroness, Lady Byford, to withdraw her amendment.