Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for
Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent discussions her Department has
had on National Parks becoming responsible for economic development of the
areas they cover. [22520]
Richard Benyon:
DEFRA is currently conducting a consultation on the governance arrangements for
the national parks. Following this I will be considering proposals for changes
to the way these areas are looked after, which may include the future
responsibilities of the authorities.