Protection of Hen Harriers

I have been contacted by a number of constituents who are concerned about protecting hen harriers and other birds of prey. 

I want our countryside to be a diverse environment, however I do recognise the conservation and economic benefits that shooting sports bring to rural communities.  

It is essential that UK wildlife is protected and people who are involved in game management must respect the country’s conservation laws, which are amongst the toughest in the world. 

Overall, shooting is worth £2 billion a year to the economy. It supports more than 70,000 full time equivalent jobs, 1,520 relating directly to grouse shooting. 

In 2010, a study was conducted by the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust, showing that predator control resulted in significant increases in the breeding success of ground nesting birds such as curlew, golden plover and lapwing. I believe that people should be free to manage wildlife within the law and the Government should only intervene in circumstances when it is necessary to do so.  

I am reassured that all wild birds are protected from illegal killing by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and there are penalties in place for any offences committed against birds of prey and other wildlife; with most crimes carrying up to an unlimited fine or a six month custodial sentence. 

In order to address people’s concerns regarding the illegal killing of birds of prey and other wildlife, the Government and enforcement officers have identified raptor persecution as a national wildlife crime priority. The National Wildlife Crime Unit monitors and gathers intelligence on wildlife crime, including raptor persecution, and aids police forces in their investigations when required.   

Healthy, active peatland provides numerous environmental benefits and ecosystem services including natural cover for grouse. As I understand it the Government is working with moor owners to further improve management practices and peat conditions such as through Blanket Bog Restoration Projects. 

The Government is aware of the need to phase out rotational burning of protected blanket blog to conserve these vulnerable habitats. I am reassured that progress has been made in promoting sustainable alternatives and I am pleased to hear legislation is being looked into which could help achieve this. I am also aware that landowners are being encouraged to adopt sustainable options. 

The Government has taken a lead on the Hen Harrier Action Plan. This sets out what will be done to increase hen harrier populations in England and includes measures to stop illegal persecution. 

While there are no current plans to carry out a review of the management of grouse moors, I recognise it is vital that wildlife and habitats are respected and protected, and that the law is observed. I am pleased that the Government will continue to work to ensure a sustainable, mutually beneficial relationship between shooting and conservation.