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Victory for forest campaigners

Protesters in the Forest of Dean appear to have won a political victory after the Government agreed to include protection of forests in legislation that might have led to parts being sold off.

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Government bows to pressure on forest bill

A trader in the Forest of Dean puts his point across Credit: ITV News

Campaigners win the Forest of Dean appear to have won a political victory.

Several hundred people protested against legislation which they say could have led to parts of the forest being sold to developers. But the government has agreed to include protection of forests in the Bill, following pressure from Labour in the House of Lords.

Rather than lose a vote and have to deal with it in the House of Commons where it could be a huge issue for MPs at this time if they get thousands of letters from people up and down the country who are concerned about the forests. Better to deal with it now in the Lords.

– Baroness Royall, Labour leader, House of Lords

Victory for Forest of Dean campaigners

Protesters who mounted a candlelit vigil in the Forest of Dean tonight appear to have won a political victory.

400 campaigners were at the event, protesting against legislation which they say could have led to parts of the forest being sold to developers.

However following Labour pressure in the House of Lords, the Government has agreed to include protection of forests in the Bill.

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