Last Monday I took part in a debate responding to a petition about swifts. Westminster Hall was filled with enthusiasts for this most agile and intriguing of birds, including me.
Members from all sides spoke with passion about the need for mandated nest sites for swifts in new developments, and we were all disappointed that the minister failed to agree with us. The same was true of the Labour Party who just prevaricated from the front bench.
When I was housing minister I brought in rules encouraging developers to make space for nature, but they haven’t taken the hint, so now I’m with the campaigners in wanted it to be compulsory.
You can watch the debate here: https://parliamentlive.tv/event/index/cc4e997f-9399-49d3-9d9b-805710f6ce50