Working together is the best way to defend British trees and plants from the pests and diseases threatening them, Environment Secretary Owen Paterson said.
He was speaking at a meeting of woodland organisations and forestry groups, who were discussing the report by the independent Tree Health and Plant Biosecurity Expert Taskforce.
Attendees at the event heard from Defra’s Chief Plant Health Officer, Martin Ward and Professor Chris Gilligan, chair of the Taskforce before they discussed the taskforce’s recommendations and how they might be practically implemented.
Environment Secretary, Owen Paterson (pictured), said: "It is clear that it is only by working together that we can do our best to protect our plants and trees.
"We’ve all got an interest in making sure this happens. Industries which rely on our woodland are worth £4.2billion to the economy and countless people enjoy walking, riding, cycling or playing in our forests.
"The Government is playing its part alongside the excellent work being carried out by woodland groups and the industry to safeguard Britain’s trees and plants now and for future generations."
More: Fight tree diseases with a united front says Owen Paterson
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