Consequences of Defra licensing debacle highlighted on the BBC
The BBC’s Farming Today programme has covered the consequences of Defra’s changes to the general licence for gamebird release in protected areas (known as GL43).
Secretary of State warned of consequences of Defra gamebird decision
BASC chief executive Ian Bell is a joint signatory on a letter which has warned the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs about the consequences of the decision to ban gamebird releasing in some parts of England.
The letter to Thérèse Coffey MP says that the late changes to the GL43 licence risk serious social, mental health and economic issues along with “issues of animal welfare brought about by a combination of poor communication, and a lack of consultation with professional game and wildlife managers and specialist vets”.
The letter urges Defra to re-issue the licence to “prevent an animal welfare crisis and economic collapse of a wide range of rural businesses” and to provide certainty to the sector.
BASC has announced it is funding a legal challenge which could see a High Court review of Defra’s actions.
BASC is thankful for the support it has received from its Aim to Sustain partners in managing the response to the GL43 issue.
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Glynn Evans steps down as PPDG chair
After 10 years at the helm, BASC’s Glynn Evans has stepped down as chair of the England and Wales Poaching Priority Delivery Group.
Defra restriction will cripple rural England, says BASC
Defra has critically underestimated the number of shoots which will be impacted by its decision to restrict gamebird release in areas of England.
