CLA backs forestry privatisation with caution

The CLA today backed the privatistion of the Forestry Commission estate while sounding a note of caution about how it should be done.

Responding to the Government’s release of a consultation document, CLA President William Worsley said: "As an organisation which exists to defend private property rights, the CLA is instinctively in favour of the privatisation of the forestry estate.

"Therefore, we are delighted the Government proposes to transfer a significant proportion of it to the private sector, whether to businesses or to charitable organisations. The CLA believes the state should not be directly engaged in commercial timber production."

Mr Worsley said: "We would, however, be concerned if the commercial part of the estate were to be sold off as a single block or all at once. Either possibility risks distorting existing timber and land markets.

"It would be better to have a well-timed disposal of appropriately sized parcels, taking account of the local interests.

"We are surprised by the suggestion that only leasehold interests would be sold and wonder whether they will prove sufficiently attractive to potential investors.

"In any event, the consequences of a woodland sell-off must be fully understood by the Government to ensure the existing private sector is not adversely affected."

He added: "Despite our preference for private enterprise, we accept that certain core forests provide significant public benefits which should be retained, in particular important heritage areas such as the Forest of Dean and the New Forest.

"But as any woodland that is sold will remain subject to existing nature conservation designations and public access rights, we do not see either being jeopardised by what is proposed, provided an adequate level of funding for public benefits is also provided."

The CLA will be responding in detail to the consultation on this issue launched yesterday by the Government.