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Dr Helen Phillips, Chief Executive of Natural England, said: “There may have been a perception that we were opposed to a voluntary initiative, but our central aim throughout this process has been to achieve all that we can for the natural environment. We have worked tirelessly alongside the industry to be a position where we can work together and achieve the best results. As we all know, one volunteer is worth a thousand pressed men.

“This initiative will now get us to where we need to be and we welcome it with open arms. We’ve reached a position where we can all roll up our sleeves and create the biggest, most meaningful and effective partnership that we could have hoped for.”

Farmers and land managers clearly recognise that care for the natural environment is a vital part of a sustainable farming system. There are huge challenges for all of us especially at a time of climate change, biodiversity loss and the pressure on land for food production.

Dr Phillips, continued: “Never before have we needed such an integrated and extensive partnership between Natural England, farmers, land managers and other conservation bodies. Working together we can develop a programme that is practical for land managers and benefits wildlife by both fully mitigating the impact of the loss of set-aside and at the same time going further by making progress towards the enhancement of these landscapes, their wildlife and water quality.”

The timing of this decision provides an opportunity to ensure we get the most out of Environmental Stewardship schemes by aligning this work with Entry Level Stewardship renewals, the majority of which are due next year.

Dr Phillips, continued: “This now ends a period of enormous uncertainty for all involved in looking after our farmed environment and gives us clarity about the tasks that lie ahead. Close monitoring of the progress of the Campaign will clearly be important to ensure real progress and we welcome the indication from the Secretary of State that preparations will be made to introduce a regulatory failsafe mechanism if the industry initiative does not fulfil its objectives.”

Notes to Editors:

For more information visit the Environmental Stewardship pages on the Natural England website

Natural England works for people, places and nature to conserve and enhance biodiversity, landscapes and wildlife in rural, urban, coastal and marine areas. We conserve and enhance the natural environment for its intrinsic value, the wellbeing and enjoyment of people, and the economic prosperity it brings.

For further information contact: The National Press Office on 0845 603 9953, press@naturalengland.org.uk out of hours 07970 098005.

For further information about Natural England please visit: www.naturalengland.org.uk