Member

The idea that we should be putting something in the Bill that cuts down oversight when we are one of the most nature-depleted corners of this battered planet cannot be defended and is deeply concerning. This requires real skills, knowledge and training. Most local authorities say that they do not have those resources available to them. Indeed, they are scarce overall, so it is better if they are concentrated in one place, with real expertise. It would also limit the opportunities to deliver win-wins from development. We need proposals that would actually improve development for people, and for nature as well.