Beckett pledges simpler services

THE NATURAL Environment and Rural Communities Bill announced in the Queen’s Speech on Tues (May 17) will improve services, according to DEFRA secretary Margaret Beckett.

Mrs Beckett said the Bill will simplify and improve services while saving money.

“It will create Natural England – a new, large and powerful body,” she said.

“Its mission will be to make our landscape the very best that it can be, allowing our green spaces to fulfil their potential and ensuring the delicate balance of wildlife is maintained. 

“It will transform the way in which we deliver rural and environmental services.”

Mrs Beckett said protecting the country’s wildlife and landscape and supporting rural communities were central to DEFRA’s legislative programme over the next year.

The department will also be working on the animal welfare Bill, common land Bill and marine Bill.