THE Government is offering no option to keep our Forest publicly owned and managed by the Forestry Commission, according to a leaked consultation document.

Private forestry manager Gabriel Hemery from Oxfordshire's Sylva Trust has published some of what he said is an official draft document.

Mr Hemery said the document has been leaked to him twice, and it was set to be launched in October. It was pulled, he claims, after the Government decided to delay consultation until this year, but was circulated to forestry interests.

Five new ownership models were mooted: sale to the highest bidder; a mix of open market and community or conservation groups sales; a not-for-profit organisation; public ownership but voluntary or private manage; and Forestry Commission partnerships with private companies.

MP Mark Harper refused to discuss the document.