asked the Minister of Land and Natural Resources whether legislation will be introduced this year to amend the National Parks Act, so as to make better provision for the protection and enjoyment of the countryside of England and Wales.

I regret that it has not been found possible to include this measure in the legislative programme for this Session.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there is a good deal of disappointment about the delay over many years by successive Governments in introducing legislation on a subject about which there is wide general public agreement? We have had legislation for Scotland. Why not for England and Wales?

The position of Scotland is different. The National Parks Act does not apply there. My hon. Friend's disappointment is shared by the Government, but if he studies the Gracious Speech he will realise that it was not possible to include such legislation in the programme for this Session.

Will time be found for the abolition of the right hon. Gentleman's Department? Does not he now consider that its establishment was a mistake?