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Written question asked by Luke Evans (Conservative) on Friday, 10 April 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 14 April 2026. It was answered by Angela Eagle (Labour) on Monday, 20 April 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.


Hen Harriers: Conservation

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what recent assessment she has made of the effect of the hen harrier taskforce on trends in the level of crimes against hen harriers on grouse moors.

Answer

Defra is a principal funder of the National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU) and is providing £530,000 for the Unit this year. In 2024, the NWCU launched the Hen Harrier Task Force (HTF) – a partnership designed to help tackle the illegal persecution of hen harriers. Through the HTF, more efficient working between partners expedites the coordination of effective enforcement response. The HTF represents a pivotal shift in combating wildlife crime, using innovative technology such as tracking drones and detection dogs to overcome logistical challenges and enhance evidence collection in remote areas.

There is an ongoing review of the HTF which is expected to report to Defra later this year. It will include an overview of confirmed crimes and their locations as well as successes and recommendations for the future.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
125266
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Conservation Grouse moors Hen harriers
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk