Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Selaine Saxby and Alister Jack

Wednesday 28th June 2023 Commons Chamber

[Mr Jack]

By law, transmission network charging is a matter for Ofgem, which is an independent regulator. It has recently produced a report on charging reforms, and the Government are looking at that report.

[Selaine Saxby (North Devon) (Con)]

9. Whether his Department has had recent discussions with the Scottish Government on supporting productive forestry planting in Scotland.

[The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr Alister Jack)]

Although forestry is a devolved policy, we continue to work with the devolved Administrations to deliver a UK-wide step change in tree planting and establishment.

[Selaine Saxby]

Last year, 50% of forestry planting was much-needed productive forestry for our construction and manufacturing industries. Does my right hon. Friend agree that there should now be a new UK-wide target that aims for 60% of new planting to be productive, allowing Scotland to lead the way for the rest of the UK?

[Mr Jack]

My hon. Friend is a champion for this industry, and it is the UK Government’s ambition to increase planting across the United Kingdom. I know she is keen for productive forestry to be used to support the construction and manufacturing industries, which is also the Government’s ambition.