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<p>Defra and the Welsh Government developed the Asian hornet contingency plan (copy
attached) in response to the spread of Asian hornet across Europe and the associated
impacts reported on honey bees and pollinators. The Contingency Plan details what
actions will be taken when incursions of Asian hornet occur and has been regularly
updated with the most recent version published in January 2023.</p><p> </p><p>We have
taken contingency action against all credible sightings of Asian hornet that have
been reported in the UK since the first occurrence in 2016. Contingency action is
delivered on the ground by the National Bee Unit (NBU) – part of the Animal and Plant
Health Agency. As of 6<sup>th</sup> September 2023, the NBU have located 37 Asian
hornet nests which have been destroyed.</p><p> </p><p>Genetic analyses of hornet and
nest samples are done to determine relatedness and assess whether Asian hornets are
established in England. Evidence from previous years suggested that all 13 Asian hornet
nests found in the UK between 2016 and 2022 were separate incursions and there is
nothing to suggest that Asian hornets are established in the UK. We have not seen
any evidence which demonstrates that Asian hornets discovered in England this year
were produced by queens that overwintered. More detailed analysis will be done over
winter to assess this.</p><p> </p><p>Raising awareness is a key aspect of the response.
We ask anyone who thinks they may have spotted an Asian hornet to report it through
the Asian hornet app or online. By ensuring we are alerted to possible sightings as
early as possible, we can take swift and effective action to stamp out the threat
posed by Asian hornets.</p>
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