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Dept for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Answer

Mr. Steen: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what representations she has received from the Highways Agency on implementing the recommendations in its Biodiversity Action plan on steps to halt the decline in the barn owl population. [139765] Mr. Bradshaw: The Highways Agency Biodiversity Action Plan (HABAP), published in 2002, includes a specific Species Action Plan (SAP) for Barn Owls. The stated aim of the SAP is "to reduce the level of incidental mortality on new and existing roads whilst ensuring favourable management of barn owl foraging and nesting habitat." This document sets out a number of related objectives and associated actions required to achieve them. The Highways Agency has commissioned its own study on the barn owl and is currently reviewing the findings of its own commissions and those of others. The outcome of this review will contribute to the publication of advice on implementation of appropriate actions in accordance with the SAP. The Government have set new targets to protect and enhance biodiversity as part of The Framework for Sustainable Development on the Government Estate. The Framework and associated targets cover all central Government Departments and their Executive Agencies, including the Highways Agency. Departments will report annually on progress.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

139765; 413 c1201W;413 c1198W

Session

2002-03

Subjects

Animal welfare Birds Conservation Accidents Highways Agency Nature conservation Roads Wildlife Owls

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk