GL43 update welcomed by BASC

BASC has today received confirmation from Defra that GL43, the general licence which permits the release of pheasants and red legged partridges on or within 500 metres of a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), will be issued in the next couple of weeks.

Defra has also advised that Ministers have not approved the issuing of GL45, which applies to the release of these gamebirds on or within 500 metres of Special Protection Areas (SPAs), due to the current risk levels of avian influenza. Shoots on these areas will be able to apply for an individual licence from Natural England, Defra has said.

Glynn Evans, BASC’s head of game and wildlife management, said: “The confirmation that GL43 will be issued in the coming weeks follows extensive lobbying of civil servants by BASC. We wrote to the Minister responsible, highlighting the growing urgency and need for information on GL43 and we are pleased our questions have been answered.

“On GL45, BASC is in the process of seeking further clarification and assurances that there will be sufficient resources in place to facilitate individual licence applications and that if risk levels decline further, that consideration will be given to the issuing of it.”

Any member affected should contact their local local BASC team for advice.