Mr. WilliamRoss asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) when the legislation necessary to implement European Economic Community directive 79/409 EEC on the conservation of wild birds will be introduced in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement;
(2) if he will list the differences at present existing between Great Britain and Northern Ireland in regard to the conservation and protection of wild birds.
§ Mr. David MitchellMost of the provisions of the European Community directive 79/409 on the conservation of wild birds are met in the Wild Birds Protection Acts 407W (Northern Ireland) 1931 to 1968. The remaining provisions will be implemented in the proposed Wildlife Protection (Northern Ireland) Order, which will be published later this year.
The differences between Great Britain and Northern Ireland legislation are numerous but minor and I shall write to the hon. Gentleman about them.