The independent scientific assessment — which was commissioned by the Forestry Commission — has been led by Sir David Read.

Emeritus professor of plant science at the University of Sheffield Sir David Read led a team of scientists to produce the assessment.

The report considers what role forests, including urban street trees, have to play in climate change mitigation and adaptation to issues such as flooding and the urban heat island effect.

Although Defra secretary Hilary Benn will give his support to the the report, he is not expected to announce any specific Government commitment or funding, said a Forestry Commission representative.