Forest Holidays: Forestry Commission Stake

Lord Hylton Excerpts
Tuesday 17th March 2015

(9 years, 7 months ago)

Lords Chamber
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Lord De Mauley Portrait Lord De Mauley
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I can confirm most of what the noble Lord said. The terms under which the current joint venture operates are very much the same as for the original joint venture. If the controlling interest is sold, the Forestry Commission may be required to sell its interest in the company by the buyer, including the Forestry Commission’s stake in the business. The sale would not change the controls set out in the framework agreement and the site leases.

Lord Hylton Portrait Lord Hylton (CB)
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My Lords, I declare my entry in the register of interests. Public access and amenity are obviously most important, but they are not the only consideration. When it comes to marketing, will the Government ensure that the Forestry Commission does not intentionally undercut private owners and producers?

Lord De Mauley Portrait Lord De Mauley
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My Lords, although that is slightly wide of the Question, I think I can none the less confirm what the noble Lord says.