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BASC - WILD JUSTICE

Posted: Thu Mar 26, 2020 7:11 pm
by Christel
How BASC is fighting Wild Justice


BASC has been granted, along with other organisations, High Court permission to register as an interested party in the Wild Justice proceedings against Defra – see press release.

The challenge


Wild Justice is claiming that the release of gamebirds, even at a considerable distance, could damage designated sites. It will use a judicial review to argue that no gamebird releasing should be allowed unless an assessment has shown there is no impact on such sites. This could affect releasing on up to more than half of the UK land area. Wild Justice sought an early hearing so that any releasing this year would be halted. However, after hearing our arguments against that, it accepted them and limited the case to releasing in 2021.

Registering as an interested party

BASC stated its intention to register to put its arguments against Wild Justice in court last year. Recently, despite Wild Justice's objections, The High Court granted BASC permission to register as an interested party. This was due to our success in showing that we can positively contribute to the case and that any eventual decision could significantly impact our members. The importance of registering as an interested party cannot be overstated – see press release. BASC put in submissions to the judge to show that an early hearing is unnecessary and could damage businesses in the countryside that are already committed and invested in producing gamebirds for release.

BASC now has the ability to:

• Take part in proceedings by written representation – BASC is seeking oral representation.

• View previously private papers.

• Provide evidence to counter the challenge.

In Wales

Wild Justice has lodged a judicial review of Welsh General Licences. BASC has stated that it will oppose any attempt by Wild Justice to damage pest control in Wales – see the related press release.

Next steps:

• BASC is in the process of registering as an interested party.

• We will ensure members are kept abreast of progress.