There has been further coverage in the BBC Online, BBC broadcast and the Guardian regarding concerns raised by the National Trust and other environmental organisations (Wildlife Trusts, RSPB) regarding the government's growth agenda.
We do not intend to go back on our commitment to the environment. We remain fully committed to our ambitious plans to halt the decline in nature by 2030 and reaching net zero by 2050, while delivering growth.
A Government spokesperson said:
Claims we intend to go back on our commitment to the environment are simply not right. We are committed to halting the decline of nature by 2030 and will not undermine our obligations to the environment in pursuit of growth.
A strong environment and a strong economy go hand-in-hand. We have legislated through the Environment Act and will continue to improve our regulations and wildlife laws in line with our ambitious vision.
We want every corner of our country to prosper, too. Bureaucratic processes in the planning system do not necessarily protect the environment so, by making sure we have the right regulations for our nation, we can make this happen.
We want to work with stakeholders, including the National Trust, as we work to halt the decline of nature and do better for our domestic environment. We are ramping up our programme of engagement across government as we further seek to ensure a strong environment - which in turn will support a strong economy.