asked Her Majesty’s Government:

Whether they will take steps to enable an inquiry to be held into the need for a major gas pipeline to cross the Brecon Beacons National Park. [HL3211]

Approval for the natural gas pipeline from Filindre to Tirley was given on 7 February 2007 and work has started. Before giving approval, the Secretary of State took into account the environmental and other aspects of the pipeline, including the impact on the Brecon Beacons National Park. Our consideration identified no reason to refuse to give approval for the construction of the pipeline or to hold an inquiry before doing so.