§ Mr. MorleyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how many British breeding birds and diurnal birds of prey, including non-indigenous species, are held in captivity in the United Kingdom and registered in accordance with regulations under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
§ Mr. Atkins[holding answer 22 April 1994]: Some 16,892 birds are currently registered with the Department.
§ Mr. MorleyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what advice he has received on the conservation implications of his Department's recent proposals for amending the scheme controlling the keeping of wild birds in captivity; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Atkins[holding answer 22 April 1994]: Further to my announcement of 21 February, more than 7,000 38W individuals and organisations have been consulted about our proposals to modify the bird ringing and registration system. A number of responses were received. These have been carefully considered and an announcement is being made today.
The Government's scientific advisors, the Joint Nature Conservation Committee, English Nature, Scottish Natural Heritage and the Countryside Council for Wales have been fully consulted about my right hon. Friend's proposals to make changes to the bird ringing and registration system.