The Environment Agency and Natural England have a key role to play in delivering government’s environmental goals. Natural England confirmed that it has had its budget reduced by almost half in recent years which has affected its ability to meet demand for its services and deliver its work.31 As a result of this, it had discussions with the Department and received a 10% increase in grant in aid in 2019–20 to help it focus on getting ready for new duties under the Environment Bill, and to help...

The Environment Agency and Natural England have a key role to play in delivering government’s environmental goals. Natural England confirmed that it has had its budget reduced by almost half in recent years which has affected its ability to meet demand for its services and deliver its work.31 As a result of this, it had discussions with the Department and received a 10% increase in grant in aid in 2019–20 to help it focus on getting ready for new duties under the Environment Bill, and to help ensure that it could carry out day-to-day responsibilities. It is hopeful that the increase in the Department’s budget, and particularly in areas that N Type: conclusion | Number: 12 | Response status: not_addressed