Schedule 22: Removal of consultation requirements Environment Act 1995: hedgerows
869.Paragraph 12 removes the requirement, in section 97(6)(d) of the Environment Act 1995, for Ministers, before making regulations under section 97 of the Act “for the protection of important hedgerows”, to consult bodies whose statutory functions include giving advice to Ministers on matters relating to environmental conservation. The requirement is removed only where the regulations apply to England only.
870.The amendment would remove only the requirement to consult those with statutory duties to advise Ministers on environmental matters. It would not remove the requirement for Ministers, before making regulations “for the protection of important hedgerows”, to consult other bodies/organisations as set out in the remaining provisions of section 97(6).
871.Section 97 forms part of the law of England and Wales and Scotland. The amendment affects England only. It comes into force at the end of the period of 2 months beginning with the day on which the Act is passed.