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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if she will take steps to encourage more children to use national parks.

National parks have a statutory purpose to promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of their special qualities by the public. Defra funds national park authorities to deliver their purposes. Each park provides a wealth of resources specifically to help children, young people and their carers make the most of the experience, from on-line information to practical activities. For example, the Ranger Ralph Club on Dartmoor runs up to 12 outdoor events a year for 5-12 year olds and the North York Moors’ education service provides curriculum-linked activities for all key stages.