CUTS AT KEW GARDENS

That this House is concerned by the latest round of cuts at Kew Gardens; notes that since 2010 Kew Gardens has suffered year on year budget reductions from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, and is facing increasing pressure to generate more income itself; is aware that independent reviews of this world-renowned institution have praised the quality and value of its scientific work and have recommended public funding is maintained or increased; is alarmed that vital international conservation work would be threatened should further cuts take place; further notes with concern that over 120 jobs are at risk due to the funding cuts by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs; and calls on the Government to allow a full public debate on the implications of such cuts and to encourage full and proper consultation with staff, the public and Kew volunteers before any final decisions are made.