My View: Wildlife Crime and Antisocial Behaviour

Thank you to everyone who got in touch with me about wildlife crime and the recent Parliamentary drop-in. Whilst my schedule meant I was unable to pop in, I was really grateful to everyone who got in touch as this is an issue really close to my heart. 

I deeply share your concerns about the use of catapults and absolutely agree that catapults should not be used against wildlife, property or people. I know as of late the misuse of catapults has been causing great concerns to communities, and as an animal lover myself, it is so distressing to think of any animal facing such horrific harm.

I was pleased to be assured that our Government takes crimes against wildlife very seriously, including those involving the use of catapults and slingshots. I am aware that while catapults are not listed as prohibited weapons in the Wildlife and Countryside of Act, within this and other legislation, there are a range of offences around deliberate attempts to kill, injure or deliberately harm wildlife. 

It is because of this existing legislation that I understand our Government believes there is already sufficient legislation in place which protects wildlife from catapults. Defra has no plans to introduce any further legislation in this area but will continue to take action against these upsetting crimes.

As you may be aware, the Government funds the National Wildlife Crime Unit, which helps prevent and detect wildlife crime. Last year, the Unit received a funding boost of £800,000 to tackle wildlife and rural crime. This money will strengthen data analysis and increase collaboration across police forces.

On the issue of catapult misuse, I know the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Home Office are working closely together to help find solutions to this problem. My ministerial colleagues have held a number of meetings on the issue, and I understand further discussions are planned.

I know tackling antisocial behaviour, such as using catapults to harm animals, is a priority for the Government. I am aware that the Home Office is using data to try target areas where more crime is reported, so I urge you to report any incidents you may witness, as this will help police investigate these crimes properly. I was really pleased to hear about the new Respect Orders and stronger powers for police introduced to tackle persistent antisocial behaviours, as this will aim to help protect animals who have been let down for too long.