Context
The MP asked about discussions on supporting productive forestry planting, highlighting the importance of conifers and their current low percentage.
Question
Whether his Department has had recent discussions with the Scottish Government on supporting productive forestry planting in Scotland. Conifers, which are the main species planted for productive forestry, account for just under half the area of UK woodland. Does my hon. Friend agree that there should now be a UK-wide target for 60% of new planting to be productive forestry, allowing Scotland to lead the way in delivering a secure supply of raw materials to support British manufacturing and construction?
Answer from John Lamont
I very much welcome this question, which is timely in National Tree Week. Reforestation is a crucial way for us all to reduce carbon emissions and improve biodiversity across the country. Although this policy is devolved, the UK Government continue to work with the devolved Administrations to deliver UK-wide change in tree planting and establishment. I thank my hon. Friend for her excellent question. There are high ambitions across the United Kingdom to increase forestry planting. I agree that we must secure a steady supply of the raw materials needed to support Britain's construction and manufacturing industries.
Not addressed: The MP asked specifically about setting a UK-wide target for 60% new productive forestry planting, but no specific commitment was made.
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