Defra announces renewal of GL40-42 for two years without changes

Defra has advised BASC and other stakeholders that it is in the process of preparing new wild bird control general licences (GL40-42) to replace the current versions, which are valid until 31 December 2023. Defra has confirmed that it is not currently planning to make any changes and will replicate the existing GL40-42 conditions in the new licences, which will be valid for two years starting from 1 January 2024.  

Glynn Evans, BASC’s head of game and wildlife management, said: “Defra’s confirmation regarding the reissuing of these important licences is welcomed. These licences permit essential control of certain bird species across several key areas, from ensuring public health to conserving some of our rarest species.

“Anyone carrying out control under the authority of any general licence must comply fully with the terms and conditions of that licence. It is important to remember there can be substantial differences between general licences, and what is allowed under the terms of one may not necessarily be allowed under another.”

Defra has also advised that it will continue to assess any new and emerging evidence concerning risks associated with the control of wild birds.

Further details and information relating to general licences can be found here.