I appreciate concerns about this issue. While it is important that there are humane tools or restraints to manage predators, in particular to protect livestock or to support the recovery of some of our most vulnerable and endangered species, methods should not be indiscriminate. The last Conservative Government gave its full support to the Private Members’ Bill, which was introduced by the former Conservative MP Jane Stevenson, which became the Glue Traps (Offences) Act 2022 banning the use of glue traps in England.
At present, the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 states that it is illegal to set in position any trap or snare calculated to cause bodily injury to any wild animal mentioned in section six of the Act. This includes badgers, otters, red squirrels and hedgehogs. Furthermore, the Deer Act 1991 makes it an offence to set in position any trap or snare calculated to cause bodily injury to any deer encountering it, or use of any trap or snare for the purpose of killing, taking or restraining such an animal.
The law currently states that snares set in position must be inspected once a day. The use of a self-locking snare is illegal, and the Animal Welfare Act 2006 prohibits causing any unnecessary suffering to any animal.
I do however recognise that there have been cases of snares being used indiscriminately, not being checked, and the code of practice not being followed. When used incorrectly, they can cause significant injuries and suffering to animals.
While penalties are in place for when the law is not followed, including an unlimited fine or a custodial sentence, the Government has announced that it will ban the use of snare traps in England. It has also announced its intention to conduct a review of other traps used to catch wildlife. I hope that, as part of this work, the Government engages with landowners and farmers to ensure that their concerns are heard.
