Peers condemn after-dark access


4 October 2000



Peers condemn after-dark access


PEERS have criticised the Government for seeking to include access after dark as part of its new right-to-roam legislation, reports The Daily Telegraph.

Tories were joined by Labour peers in expressing concern about the plans.

Concerns were voiced at the beginning of the debate to consider amendments during the committee stage of the Countryside and Rights of Way Bill.

Tory agriculture spokeswoman Lady Byford said concerns about night-time access included fears over public safety, security and the environment.

Labours Lady Mallalieu said country people were vulnerable to burglary and needed to know who was about.

But Lord Whitty, junior environment minister, was not persuaded by these arguments and said he had no intention of making changes.

See more