Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee
Recommendation 18
18
Not Addressed
Conflicting roles for Natural England in EDPs and Nature Restoration Fund raise conflict of interest concerns.
Conclusion
Considering the conflicting roles Natural England (NE) are expected to play in developing, delivering and assessing Environmental Delivery Plans (EDPs) and the Nature Restoration Fund, we are concerned about the potential for either a real, or a perception of, a conflict of interest. We do not doubt the earnestness and expertise with which NE staff will seek to deliver EDPs, 88 but nevertheless it is essential that robust safeguards are in place to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the regulatory process. (Conclusion, Paragraph 84)
Government response summary AI-generated
The government's response outlines measures to simplify Biodiversity Net Gain for small and brownfield developments and its application to Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects, but does not address the committee's concern about Natural England's potential conflict of interest in Environmental Delivery Plans.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government · verbatim extract
Not Addressed
The Government and Natural England recognise the importance of avoiding any perception of conflict of interest, and will continue to ensure that Natural England’s advisory and regulatory functions are objective and delivered with high degree of integrity, independently of new functions around the NRF. This will ensure that both Parliament and the public can continue to trust the advice and delivery of nature restoration. The Act establishes clear roles and responsibilities for the various parties involved in the development, consideration and delivery of EDPs. As part of the implementation of the NRF, Natural England will put suitable propriety barriers in place to ensure it can act effectively as an advisory body while also being tasked with preparing and implementing EDPs, as part of the NRF. NE is considering this recommendation further and will publish a policy statement if deemed necessary.
Read the full response on Parliament ↗