Responding to Natural England’s announcement, CLA‘s [Alliance Member] President Tim Breitmeyer said:
“It is hugely disappointing that Natural England is being diverted into reviewing these licences for no practical benefit. This will place additional strain on their limited resources, further breeding an ever-growing sense of frustration at a time when farmers are proactively engaging with the environmental agenda.
“These licenses have worked successfully for many years, enabling farms and rural businesses to produce a secure supply of food alongside protection for young livestock, farmland birds and other wildlife from a range of predatory wild birds. This decision means farmers and land managers are now plunged into uncertainty at a critical season for both wildlife and farming.
“The CLA will urgently work with Natural England to ensure there is an alternative solution without delay.”