Commenting on the release of the woodland expansion strategy paper, Liberal Democrat Environment spokesperson Jim Hume MSP, who has led the campaign against leasing out Scotland's forests to private investment companies, said:

"Despite widespread opposition from forestry unions, environmental groups, timber companies, tourism and leisure businesses, and almost 10,000 signatories to the Liberal Democrat petition, the Scottish Government continues to peddle this ridiculous plan.

"The Environment Minister thinks he'll net £200million profit from this plan. But under his plans the Forestry Commission could lose up to £20million a year for the 75 year term of the lease.

"The quick buck earned by the Scottish Government is dwarfed by the £1.5billion that will be lost. It is about time the Minister started counting the cost of the jobs that are put at risk by the effective sell off of some of Scotland's most prized natural assets.

"The sooner the Scottish Government drops these plans, the sooner we can begin discussing constructive proposals that will help us tackle climate change."