Written question asked by Andrew Dismore (Labour) on Monday, 24 February 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 11 March 2003. It was answered by Elliot Morley (Labour) on Tuesday, 11 March 2003 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dept for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what plans she has to de-designate (a) starlings and (b) house sparrows as pests. - Includes ref to Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Answer: Mr. Dismore: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what plans she has to de-designate (a) starlings and (b) house sparrows as pests. [99617] Mr. Morley: Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 all birds are protected. There is nolegal definition of wild birds as pests. However, under Section 16 of the 1981 Act general licences are issued that allow the killing or taking of certain birds for the purposes of public health and air safety, conservation of wild birds and to prevent serious damage to crops. Both the starling and house sparrow are currently listed on some of these licences. Research conducted on behalf of my Department last year into the declines of both these species showed that control under the general licences has an insignificant effect upon their conservation status and their population numbers. All general licences are reviewed annually and re-issued only after seeking the advice of our statutory advisor, English Nature. Officials are currently examining all the general licences, including those for killing or taking of certain birds, and will be discussing with stakeholders any relevant improvements.

Secondary information