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<p>All wild birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which
provides a powerful framework for the conservation of wild birds, their eggs, nests
and habitats. The Government is committed to ensuring the protection afforded to wild
birds of prey is effectively enforced. There are strong penalties for offenders, including
imprisonment.</p><p> </p><p>We are also committed to securing the long-term future
of the hen harrier as a breeding bird in England. The Hen Harrier Action Plan sets
out what will be done to increase hen harrier populations in England and includes
measures to stop illegal persecution. The long-term plan was published in January
2016 and we believe that it remains the best way to safeguard the hen harrier in England.
A copy of the plan is attached.</p><p> </p><p>Raptor persecution is one of six national
wildlife crime priorities. Each wildlife crime priority has a delivery group to consider
what action should be taken and develop a plan to prevent crime, gather intelligence
on offences and enforce against it. The Raptor Persecution Priority Delivery Group
focuses on the golden eagle, goshawk, hen harrier, peregrine and white-tailed eagle.
The National Wildlife Crime Unit, which is part funded by Defra, monitors and gathers
intelligence on illegal activities affecting birds of prey and provides assistance
to police forces when required.</p>
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