Natural Environment and Rural Communities Bill

moved Amendment No. 171:"Page 4, line 25, leave out subsection (4)." The noble Earl said: Clause 8(4) would give the Secretary of State the power to authorise Natural England to compulsorily acquire land for the purposes of implementing experimental schemes. Given the extensive powers afforded to the new body to enter into management agreements, it really seems somewhat excessive for compulsory purchase to be an option.