Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, if he will publish an evaluation of changes in UK natural capital since May 2010 when he publishes his Emergency Budget in July 2015.

The Government takes natural capital very seriously. We have set long term-goals to stop the decades of decline in wildlife and habitats, and have already seen some improvements. Since 2010 we have helped to create over 150,000 acres of field margins, wetlands and woodlands, and woodland cover is at its highest level in 700 years.

Economic growth and improving the environment go hand-in-hand, and the Natural Capital Committee has made a range of recommendations on how we manage the environment in a way that will enhance it for future generations whilst meeting our economic needs. Given the significance of this work, we are carefully analysing the recommendations made in the Natural Capital Committee’s report, and will respond later this year. As part of that response, we will set out how Government plans to integrate natural capital into wider policy making and reporting.

The content of the Summer Budget will not be announced ahead of 8 July.