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

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they intend to introduce regular reviews of protected species designations; and if so, what timeframe they propose for such reviews.

In accordance with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, a review of the domestic animal and plant species listed for protection is conducted every five years. Implementing changes as a result of the review is a matter for the UK Government and devolved administrations.

We believe a five-yearly review is proportionate as the status of species rarely alters at a greater rate. If necessary, interim amendments can be made in the event of a sudden change in the conservation status of an individual species.