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Written question asked by Lord Randall of Uxbridge (Conservative) on Wednesday, 8 January 2025, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 22 January 2025. It was answered by Baroness Hayman of Ullock (Labour) on Thursday, 16 January 2025 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Avian Influenza

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government, following reports of cases of avian flu in pheasants, what assessment they have made of the risks that ‘catching up’ pheasants this shooting season may pose to people, captive birds, and wild birds; and what plans they have, if any, to publish guidance and a risk assessment on this activity.

Answer

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has published on GOV.UK their assessment of the risk of catching up gamebirds and the transmission of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1. The need to update this risk assessment in response to new scientific evidence, veterinary advice or significant changes in the epidemiological situation is kept under review as part of the Government’s work to monitor and manage the risks of avian influenza.

Defra has also published guidance on GOV.UK specifically covering the avian influenza rules and best practice in disease prevention for gamebirds. Defra, together with APHA and Natural England, work closely with industry groups to ensure this vital information is distributed and utilised by the gamebird sector.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL3897
Session
2024-26
Attachment
risk assessment 2022
Subjects
Gun sports Avian influenza Pheasants
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk