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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether he has made an assessment of the potential merits of introducing vicarious liability for landowners who direct their employees to commit wildlife crimes.

Defra does not currently have any plans to introduce vicarious liability in England. So far there is no compelling evidence that the introduction of the provisions in Scotland has had a significant deterrent effect on those who persecute wildlife.

We will continue to monitor the situation to consider whether this, or a similar offence such as strict liability, is necessary and proportionate to assist in tackling wildlife crime.

There are strong penalties in place for offences committed against wildlife.