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Useful debate in the Lords just now on the UK's failure to meet the UN Aichi Targets on biodiversity and @Natures_Voice #LostDecade report. THREAD 
1/ The first question was from @kateparminter, who challenged @ZacGoldsmith on the failure to bring forward a ban of burning peat bogs. @ZacGoldsmith responded "The govt has always been clear of the need to phase out burning...we're looking at how legislation can achieve this"
2/ @IainMcNicol set out the lack of progress against the Aichi targets, particularly on species, habitats and funding. @ZacGoldsmith said more needs to be done, but the £640m nature climate fund and increased international funding, amongst others, are evidence of govt commitment.
3/ Baroness Hooper asked about the UK Overseas Territories and what support the govt are giving to them. @ZacGoldsmith replied that protecting biodiversity in the UKOTs remains a priority with a new £10m funding stream and expansion of the blue belt.
4/ Lord Grantchester asked about the disparity between the @Natures_Voice report on progress on Aichi targets and the govt's own assessment. @ZacGoldsmith accepted "we do not dispute that protected areas need to be better managed" #LostDecade
5/ @LorelyBurt cuts to the point "My Lords, we've failed...clearly we can't be truted to save out own wildlife, unless we make ourselves take the action needed..So isn't now the time to set legally binding targets, for own sakes and ultimately, the planet?" #LostDecade
6/ In response, @ZacGoldsmith says that the Environment, Agriculture and Fisheries Bills, along with a big focus on nature based solutions, will mean we do meet commitments in future.
7/ Finally, @natalieben asks about increased cases of raptor persecution in lockdown, and suggests govt should be bringing forward a ban of driven grouse shooting, rather than a special exemption from covid rules to allow shoots to go ahead.
8/ In his final response, @ZacGoldsmith says the decision mirrors those in Scotland and Wales, and its not a special dispensation as has been reported.
That's it. A good debate, thanks to all Peers who spoke up and especially @lordtev for getting it on the agenda. #LostDecade
That's it. A good debate, thanks to all Peers who spoke up and especially @lordtev for getting it on the agenda. #LostDecade
