Forestry: Independent Panel Report Debate
Full Debate: Read Full DebateLord Bishop of Norwich
Main Page: Lord Bishop of Norwich (Bishops - Bishops)Department Debates - View all Lord Bishop of Norwich's debates with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
(10 years, 11 months ago)
Lords ChamberWe will hear from the right reverend Prelate first.
My Lords, can the Minister assure us that the Government will keep faith with the recommendation to establish guardians of the public forest estate and, if so, tell us what their role will be in relation to the new management organisation that is being established?
My Lords, before I answer that perhaps I should reiterate my thanks to the right reverend Prelate the Bishop of Liverpool and his independent panel for the work that they did for us on this.
We envisage that there will be a group of guardians who will draw on the interests and expertise of public forest users and will be able to advise and support the delivery of the new body’s remit. The guardians will be focused on the outcomes that the management body delivers, such as environmental biodiversity and social benefits, and any questions of significant land acquisitions and disposals.