asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement about the operation and effectiveness of the recently set up environment co-ordination unit in his Department.

The environment co-ordination unit was established to provide a central co-ordinating point for the many aspects of Ministry activity affecting environmental issues; to create closer links between the advisory, scientific and policy interests within my Department; and to develop a coherent strategic approach to conservation over the whole range of the Ministry's responsibilities. In performing these functions. the unit has played a valuable part in the further strengthening of my policies for encouraging and supporting good conservation practice.