BURT PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR NEW BACK GARDENS BILL

7.25.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 18th Mar 2008

Lorely Burt MP offered her support for Caroline Spelman MP's Ten Minute Rule Bill, Land Use (Garden Protection), that received its First Reading in Parliament today.

The Solihull MP, who introduced her own Bill to combat the sale of parkland and back garden development two years ago, said she would have been happy to sponsor the Bill and would speak in favour should it be debated at a Second Reading.

Lorely Burt MP said:

"I welcome the introduction of this Bill by Caroline Spelman. We represent neighbouring constituencies and speak with one voice on this issue, which is very important to Solihull residents.

"My own Bill was fully debated at Second Reading and helped to keep the issue on the agenda. I would have been happy to co-sponsor this Bill if asked, and will speak in favour if it is debated at Second Reading.

"Ministers must not be allowed to forget that back garden development is a big issue in areas where our leafy urban environment is under threat because of excessive infill development."