Forestry: Independent Panel Report Debate
Full Debate: Read Full DebateDepartment: Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Lord Bishop of Norwich
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(10 years, 10 months ago)
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The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Lord Hill of Oareford)
We will hear from the right reverend Prelate first.
The Lord Bishop of Norwich
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?
Lord De Mauley
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.