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Natural Environment and Rural Communities Bill

Perhaps I may put in a brief word on this. I think that my noble friend would agree that the recent Defra review stated that the constraint does not appear to have presented serious difficulties. I believe that the review also said that provided the socio-economic duty continues to be in support of the purposes, there would be benefit in removing the constraint. I do not in any way oppose the Government’s proposals but it would be helpful if my noble friend could make it categorically clear that the duty must be carried out in ways compatible with the purposes of the parks. With that assurance I hope it will be easier for us all to support him.