PROPOSED CLOSURE OF CENTRE FOR ECOLOGY AND HYDROLOGY RESEARCH LABORATORIES

Early day motion 1373, tabled 16 January 2006 by Peter Ainsworth (Conservative). Signed by 106 members.

That this House notes with concern the proposal to close the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology scientific laboratories at Monk's Wood, Banchory and Winfrith; believes that their closure would severely impair the long-term monitoring and study of ecological change; further believes it would reduce the quality of independent science-based advice to Government on environmental matters, including climate change; and would dissipate the expertise of up to 200 experienced scientists; further believes that the savings expected from the closures will be more than offset by associated restructuring costs; supports the campaign by leading environmental charities to prevent the closure; applauds the work of the centres over many years; and calls on the National Environment Research Council and the Government to ensure their survival.

Signatures by party: Conservative 65, Liberal Democrat 24, Labour 7, DUP 4, Scottish National Party 3, Plaid Cymru 1, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1, UUP 1.