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Written question asked by Vikki Slade (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 23 June 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 30 June 2025 (named day). It was answered by Mary Creagh (Labour) on Monday, 30 June 2025 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Badgers: Conservation

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the amendments made in Schedule 6, Part 2, Clause 41 of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill relating to the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 on (a) the potential number of badgers killed and (b) local wildlife populations.

Answer

These amendments standardise licences for development purposes under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 with those for other species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations, 2017. This is intended to facilitate strategic-level Environmental Delivery Plans.

We are legislating that all badger licences will be subject to strict tests required by the Bern Convention, which set a high bar. For licences under the Nature Restoration Fund, an overall improvement in the conservation status of badgers will be required.

The impact of these provisions will depend on practical application by Natural England through EDPs or individual licences.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
61976
Session
2024-26
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Conservation Badgers Planning Wildlife
Legislation
Protection of Badgers Act 1992
Planning and Infrastructure Bill 2024-26
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk