Mr Speaker acknowledged the importance of SSSIs, emphasising their role in achieving biodiversity goals set by the UK Government. Derek Thomas expressed concern over how Natural England managed the SSSI designation for West Penwith moors and downs, criticising the lack of engagement with local farmers and landowners. He highlighted that nearly 1000 acres of clean farmland were included without robust evidence, leading to doubts about the sustainability of farms in the area. Thomas argued that proper on-site testing was not conducted before designation, which undermined confidence among farmers who have been managing the landscape for generations. The speech also touched upon issues like water abstraction rights and restrictions imposed by Natural England, impacting rural economies and food security. Thomas proposed reviewing the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to better balance environmental considerations with socio-economic impacts.