On Monday, King Charles III

Conservation charities say that characterisation is wrong.Natural England declared the Swanscombe Pensinsula, where around 1,300 of Ebbsfleet's homes were planned, as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in March 2021.

It is one of just two sites in the UK which are home to the distinguished jumping spider.The tiny creatures are just millimetres in size and thrive in rubble and post-industrial environments .It is understood Sir Keir was using the example to make a broad point but conservation charities have expressed disappointment at his apparent lack of accuracy.

Jamie Robins, from the charity Bugslife, said: "Making false claims about critically endangered jumping spiders stopping 'an entire new town' is misleading and incorrect."He said it "undermines public confidence in the vital protections and binding commitments that we have for nature and the role of Natural England in helping it to thrive".

Emma Waller, from Kent Wildlife Trust, said: "All of the SSSI, including where the 1,300 [homes] were planned, are vital habitats that we simply cannot afford to lose."

"We must move beyond the narrative of 'nature versus growth.' Sustainable development, which respects and integrates the natural environment, benefits both people and wildlife.""We look forward to continuing our regular dialogue with National Theatre Wales as they move into this new phase in their development," he said.

"We have also commissioned a review into English language theatre in Wales, which will be published in the spring."The lack of public consultation into Croydon Council's handling of proposed youth service cuts is an "insult" to young people and their families, Labour MP Natasha Irons has said.

The Croydon East MP said the Conservative-led authority's approach shut out the very voices that should have been heard.The council's Youth Engagement Team (YET) provides support and education services to young people living, working, or attending schools in Croydon, as well as their families.