Improving the Protection of Wild Mammals in Scotland

Closed 31 Jan 2018

Opened 6 Oct 2017

Results updated 5 Jul 2018

A report analysing the responses to this consultation was published on 29 June 2018 and is available to download.

Files:

Published responses

View submitted responses where consent has been given to publish the response.

Overview

We recognised concerns about whether legislation on fox-hunting in Scotland is working properly. That is why we asked the Right Honourable Lord Bonomy to undertake a review to ascertain whether the Protection of Wild Mammals (Scotland) Act 2002 is providing a sufficient level of protection for wild mammals, while at the same time allowing effective and humane control of mammals, such as foxes, where necessary.

Lord Bonomy’s report is an important milestone and represents a considered, objective and comprehensive examination of the issues. He outlines a significant number of potential improvements for the conduct of operations under the 2002 Act, and to the Act itself.

Why your views matter

We want to ensure that decisions on any ensuing reforms to the Protection of Wild Mammals (Scotland) Act 2002 following Lord Bonomy's review are taken with a sound understanding of the issues and implications.

Download the consultation paper.

What happens next

After consultation closes, we will analyse the responses and consider whether reforms to existing legislation are necessary.

Interests

  • Environment and Climate Change
  • Farming and Rural
  • Law and Order