For the Government seems to be back-tracking from its manifesto pledge on greater access and is preparing its own proposals for voluntary agreements with landowners on a site-by-site basis that, even when not bogged down in numerous negotiations, might only produce a patchwork right to roam.
Mr Prentice's measure, it appears, is too strong for the government - even with its safeguards for sensitive sites. But the government's is likely to prove too timid for ramblers.
A middle way is needed - one that grants ample access to the countryside, but recognises that it is also a working environment that cannot be trampled over willy-nilly.
Despite inevitable delay, perhaps a Royal Commission should map out proposals to satisfy all sides.
Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
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