Peat Extraction Ms. Walley To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make environmental impact assessment mandatory on all planning applications for the extraction of peat. Mr. Moynihan [holding answer 11 May 1990]: Environmental assessments cannot be made mandatory on all planning applications for peat extraction, as each case has to be considered on its merits. EAs will be required, however, where the proposed development is likely to have a significant environmental impact.