Stephen has today written to the Secretary of State for the Environment asking that the government commit to keeping key nature protections within UK law.
Stephen has been approached by number of constituents who are concerned that the government plans to water down regulations which protect vulnerable habitats and species. He made clear in his letter that protecting biodiversity, halting the decline of nature and restoring habitats and wildlife must be a priority.
Speaking about the letter, Stephen said “The recent announcements by Ministers in recent months are an unprecedented attack on nature. The government is threatening to tear up the laws that protect our best wildlife sites, weakening protections for nature in the planning system and may be about to scrap vital proposals that would help farmers help nature".
A consultation was held on environmental laws earlier this year. In July, the government said it was analysing responses to the consultation and would publish a formal response “in due course” .