Natural Environment and Rural Communities Bill

I am convinced that the solution proposed by the noble Baroness, Lady Miller—that of removing the reference to ““sustainable development”” in subsection (1) and including it as one of the purposes under subsection (2)—is the answer to the problem that I raised earlier. I would be extremely happy if this proposal were accepted. Indeed, unless it is accepted, the Minister’s entire statement that it is for Natural England to balance the various issues and come to a sensible conclusion will be defeated because it will not be able to take sustainable development into account as a factor in what is in the best interests of the natural environment. I will be very unhappy if the Minister does not say that he will take the proposal away and think about it carefully. If my interpretation of subsection (1) is too harsh or wrong, moving the phrase to the place suggested by the noble Baroness can do no harm. If, on the other hand, my construction is right, failing to move it would absolutely defeat the entire balancing exercise of the Bill. I look forward to hearing some encouraging words from the Minister.