ePolitix.com's Stakeholder Parliamentary Briefings offer organisations a chance to communicate their message to MPs and Peers on specific Bills.
Natural Environment and Rural Communities Bill
During the second reading debate in the Lords on November 7, the views of several of our stakeholders were raised.
Lord Rotherwick (Conservative) said:
"Finally, the NERC Bill fails to clarify whether enhancing or conserving the environment should be considered the priority. Indeed, what is the definition of "enhancing" and "conserving"? I am sure there will be a discussion-a little discussion-in Committee. Likewise, there is some ambiguity about whether wildlife or human access to the countryside should take precedence.
The Woodland Trust and the CPRE are among others that would like to see a conflict resolution clause that makes it clear that when there is a serious or irreconcilable conflict between open-air recreation and conserving the natural environment, NE will give the greater weight to conserving the natural environment. I listened earlier to the noble Baroness, Lady Young of Old Scone, articulate similar views.
On the other hand, the Central Council of Physical Recreation believes that,
"access and recreation [should] . . . be given equal consideration as conservation and biodiversity".
I therefore believe that the Bill would be the better for clarification in this important area." Column 458
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