Oral Answers to Questions

Neil O'Brien Excerpts
Monday 20th January 2025

(1 week, 5 days ago)

Commons Chamber
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Matthew Pennycook Portrait Matthew Pennycook
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Ancient woodland and ancient and veteran trees are already strictly protected in national planning policy, while tree preservation orders safeguard individual trees or groups of trees of particular value. It is for local planning authorities to apply the protections effectively as they have principal responsibility. I am more than happy to discuss that further with my hon. Friend.

Neil O'Brien Portrait Neil O’Brien (Harborough, Oadby and Wigston) (Con)
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My constituents, particularly in Great Glen, have just experienced devastating flooding. Under the last Government, we opened up the flood recovery framework so that they could get grants to protect themselves. When will they be able to access that money under this Government?

Alex Norris Portrait Alex Norris
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The hon. Gentleman will know that these decisions are taken on a case-by-case basis, generally depending on the extent of damage from floods. We will look at that closely. I would be willing to talk to him to ensure that the accountability is there.