BASC has today begun legal proceedings against Defra by issuing a Pre-Action Protocol (PAP) letter regarding the decision not to reissue General Licence 45 (GL45) for 2025.
By issuing a PAP letter, BASC has taken the first step towards a Judicial Review of Defra’s handling of the matter.
The move comes after months of work by BASC teams to hold Defra to account over why GL45 was not renewed. The general licence previously allowed for the managed release of pheasants and red-legged partridges on or within 500m of Special Protection Areas (SPAs) in England.
Although the decision was made back in March, Defra has still not provided the formal reason behind it or published a detailed decision-making document.
BASC believes that by withholding this information, Defra has broken from its usual way of working and has disadvantaged shoots and land managers at a critical time. Without clarity, it’s extremely difficult for those affected by the change to understand the decision, draft reasoned licence applications and plan their work for the season ahead, if they are able to operate at all.
BASC’s chief executive Ian Bell, said: “We have been left with no option but to pursue legal action. Our members deserve transparency, fairness and timely access to the information needed to comply with environmental regulations and safeguard their businesses.”
“This is not just about process – it is about livelihoods and trust in how decisions are made. The sector has engaged in good faith throughout, and Defra’s failure to provide adequate reasons or evidence has undermined that trust. We will continue to fight for a fair and balanced approach that recognises the value of sustainable game management and the conservation, social and economic benefits it delivers.”
BASC has warned Defra that shooting businesses are facing financial ruin, criminal charges or both, unless it urgently reinstates a licence for the release of gamebirds in protected areas of England.
BASC has settled a claim for a judicial review over Defra’s decision to alter GL43, which allowed the release of gamebirds in certain areas of England.
BASC’s legal team has written to Minister Julie James MS to seek clarification on issues related to the NRW gamebird releasing consultation.
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