Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what consultation took place with (1) local authorities, (2) local voluntary bodies, (3) other local bodies involved with amenity and tourism, and (4) national voluntary and campaigning bodies concerned with National Parks, outdoor activities and access, before taking the decision to advertise for sale land at Stickle Tarn (Great Langdale), Yewbarrow Woods (Longsleddale), Blue Hill and Red Bank Wood, Blea Brows (Coniston Water), Lady Wood (White Moss), Banerigg Wood (White Moss), and the amenity land with river frontage at Portinscale.

National park authorities are independent bodies provided with the power, under the 1972 Local Government Act, to dispose of land. The Government has no role in consultation on disposal decisions.

The Lake District National Park Authority has voluntarily provided information regarding the consultation they have undertaken, including liaison with parish councils, public notices advertising their intention to invite offers for some properties and direct consultation with a number of neighbouring landowners and strategic partners.

The Authority has committed to continue to consult and respond to any queries and concerns they receive throughout the formal tender process.