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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what regulations cover the controlling by shooting or otherwise of ravens which predate on other species; and if she will make a statement.

All wild birds, including ravens, are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Under this Act it is an offence to kill, injure or take wild birds and to take or damage their eggs and nests. There are, however, provisions in section 16 of the Act that allow for the control of birds for the purpose of conserving flora and fauna, for which a licence could be granted. Natural England is the licensing authority in England.