Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of re-introducing the Eurasian lynx to britain.

Defra is committed to providing opportunities for the reintroduction of formerly native species where the benefits for the environment, people and the economy are clear. To maximise benefits and minimise risks, it is important that species reintroductions are conducted carefully.

No decision has been taken on the reintroduction of Eurasian lynx. Any proposal to reintroduce this species would need to be considered on a case-by-case basis, informed by a full assessment of ecological, social and economic impacts. Large predators present some significant challenges and impacts that would need to be overcome and managed prior to the consideration of their reintroduction.