Caroline Lucas says government still threatens forests!

Government isn’t being genuine over forestry statement, says Green MP



Green Party leader will seek to amend forestry bill



Responding to today’s statement from DEFRA about the sale of Forestry Commission land (1), Caroline Lucas MP, Green Party leader said:

No one should be misled into thinking that today’s statement represents a reprieve for the nation’s forests and woodlands. It refers to the ongoing sale of Forestry Commission assets, as begun under the previous administration, and whilst I welcome the Government giving greater consideration to protecting access to our woodlands there is still no sign that they are genuine about this in the long term. It’s clear that the Government is now on the back foot as a result of the public campaign against their ill judged proposals. But we still have a fight on our hands to resist the legislative changes that would make the forest sell off a reality – which is why I will be seeking to amend the Public Bodies Bill in the Commons.



Note



1. The statement from DEFRA re forestry commission land can be read at http://hcl1.hclibrary.parliament.uk/general_pdf/ministerialstatements/Feb1111/wms4.pdf.