The Brecks is a beautiful and unique part of our country, which attracts many thousands of tourists every year, and is home to many thousands more residents and businesses – many of whom are leading the way in some of the most exciting and innovative fields and sectors of tomorrow.

With its distinctive qualities and an abundance of untapped opportunities and potential, the Breck has a key role to play in the years ahead – and that is why I am delighted to be supporting the joint Norfolk County Council and Suffolk County Council initiative to try and secure for this key area a new National Landscape Designation.

Earlier this week, I wrote to the Rt Hon Lord Benyon to add my voice to those endorsing the initiative (see my letter below) and I am committed to doing all I can to help this wonderful corner of the world get the recognition it deserves. Not only would such a designation boost tourist and business revenues, it would pave the way for a much more integrated management plan – one that takes account of important factors such as food security, the important nature value of the area and the development and enhancement of its outstanding recreational amenity opportunities.

I look forward to following progress closely.