DEFRA is currently running a public consultation about the future ownership and management of the public forest estate in England – land managed by the Forestry Commission on behalf of the DEFRA. Members attention is drawn to the consultation details. Powers needed to implement any changes are being debated in Parliament as part of the Public Bodies Bill. Currently these plans do not guarantee future access to certain public forestry land once sold.  Responses to the consultation are open to individuals, with the consultation period closing on 21 April 2011, and members may wish to provide their views.