Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

Productive Forestry 2023-06-28

2023-06-28

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Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
Selaine Saxby
▸ Context
There is a need to support productive forestry planting that benefits the construction and manufacturing industries.
Whether his Department has had recent discussions with the Scottish Government on supporting productive forestry planting in Scotland. Although 50% of last year's forestry planting was for productive purposes, should there now be a new UK-wide target aiming for 60% of new planting to support construction and manufacturing industries?
Alister Jack
Forestry is a devolved policy, but we work with the devolved Administrations to deliver a step change in tree planting. My hon. Friend is a champion for this industry and it is the Government's ambition to increase planting across the United Kingdom.
▸ Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about setting a new UK-wide target was not addressed directly.
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Selaine Saxby
▸ Context
Productive forestry planting is important for the construction and manufacturing industries.
Does my right hon. Friend agree that there should now be a new UK-wide target that aims for 60% of new planting to be productive, allowing Scotland to lead the way for the rest of the UK?
Alister Jack
My hon. Friend is a champion for this industry and it is the UK Government's ambition to increase planting across the United Kingdom. The Government aims to support the construction and manufacturing industries with productive forestry.
▸ Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about setting a new target of 60% was not addressed directly.
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Dave Doogan SNP
Angus and Perthshire Glens
▸ Context
Scotland has been leading the way on forestry and tree planting, with over 10,000 hectares planted.
Can the Secretary of State instruct the House on how, around the Cabinet table, he has championed Scotland's progress in this area, or is he too cowering?
Alister Jack
Not only do I champion it, I plant trees myself.
▸ Assessment & feedback
The question about his actions around the Cabinet table was not addressed; instead, he made a personal statement.
Personal Statement
Response accuracy