§ 12. Mr. Flanneryasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is satisfied that the present regulations protecting wild birds in the United Kingdom are adequate; and what proposals have been made by member countries of the European Economic Community to harmonise these regulations.
§ Mr. MarksIn the main, yes. The European Economic Community recently adopted a directive on bird conservation which requires Community members to introduce within two years legislation on bird protection and conservation to a standard in most respects the same as our present Protection of Birds Acts. There are one or two new controls needed in this country as a result, notably in reducing the number of birds which may be sold having been shot, and the Government intend to introduce an amending Bill in the next Session. As it is 25 years since the present Act was passed it seems sensible to review all aspects of its working and this review is taking place. The hon. Member may be reassured to know that the directive does not in any way weaken present controls and allows a member State to go beyond its provisions for conservation reasons.