
BASC responds to publication of new Defra general licences
BASC chief executive Ian Bell met Michael Gove ahead of announcement.
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More than 12,000 people have already completed BASC’s survey on general licences in less than 24 hours.
The survey, which takes less than five minutes to answer, was launched on Tuesday May 7, to help in the “fight for a common sense approach to bird pest control in England”.
Following Natural England’s decision to withdraw three general licences for the control of pest birds in England and the chaos which has ensued, the survey forms one part of our call to action.
BASC is also asking people to email Defra direct to outline how they have been affected.
Ian Danby, BASC’s head of biodiversity,said: “We are absolutely delighted that so many people have already taken the time to take part in the survey.
“We have spoken to thousands of our members over the last 10 days, since the revocation of the licences, and we know just how strongly they feel about the situation.
“The response so far has been fantastic, but there is no time to waste for those who have not made their voice heard. Defra must understand the depth of feeling on this issue and the problems that have arisen since the decision was made.
“We urge everyone who has been affected to act now, so take part in the survey and email Defra to have your voice heard.”
BASC chief executive Ian Bell met Michael Gove ahead of announcement.
BASC has been granted permission by the High Court to bring a judicial review of Defra’s decision to withdraw GL43, the general licence that allowed gamebird release in certain areas of England.
The condition would impact young and future farmers, conservationists and pest controllers who require general licences in work and training.