LEGISLATION

Despite the concerted efforts and advocacy by BPCA, the proposed amendments to the Wildlife Management and Muirburn Bill in Scotland, aimed at implementing a licensing system for the controlled use of glue traps, have unfortunately been withdrawn.  

Undeterred by this setback, BPCA remains steadfast in its support for a viable licensing scheme that balances animal welfare with public health. 

The proposed amendments were brought by Edward Mountain, MSP for Highlands and Islands, and supported by BPCA. 

Mr Mountain withdrew the amendment, anticipating the potential for improvement in collaboration with Gillian Martin, Minister for Energy.  

While expressing openness to a licensing scheme, Ms Martin disagreed with the specifics proposed in the amendment.  

However, there is hope for a collaborative effort, as she hinted at the possibility of a similar amendment in Stage 3 of the bill, indicating room for refinement. 

These amendments aim to implement a licensing system so that Scottish Ministers “may grant a licence[...] authorising a pest controller” to use glue traps. 

BPCA’s response to the amendment withdrawal 

In response to this decision, Ian Andrew, BPCA Chief Executive, expressed disappointment, stating: 

"The withdrawal of this sensible amendment is disheartening. However, we hope that a revised amendment will be brought to the committee for Stage 3, which takes a balanced approach, considering both public health concerns and animal welfare.  

"We have engaged with cross-party members, met with ministers, and consistently held our stance since similar measures were considered in England.  

"The potential repercussions, including school and hospital closures due to escalating rodent problems, highlight the urgent need for a reconsideration of these amendments.  

"We sincerely hope that a sensible resolution will prevail in the ongoing discussions surrounding pest management legislation in Scotland." 

Acknowledgement of BPCA advocacy 

Whilst the amendment proposed in this stage of the Bill has failed, we appreciate the acknowledgment of BPCA's consistent advocacy on this issue. 

Gillian Martin said, “I spoke the BPCA in January, and we discussed glue traps and I really welcomed that very constructive conversation I had with them. 

“I'm sympathetic to what the pest controllers had to say to me in that meeting because public health is an absolute priority.  

“But if were to allow pest controllers to use glue traps in any capacity it would need to be very tightly regulated, to make sure that no one gets hold of one if they aren’t supposed to.  

“I am prepared to give that aspect further consideration, I understand why Edward Mountain has put forward these proposals, however, I don’t think that Edward Mountain’s licensing scheme is workable as drafted.  

“It does not limit who can undertake the approved training and who can apply for the licence other than 'a pest controller'”.  

Continued hope for a licensing scheme 

We remain hopeful that Ms Martin will collaborate on crafting an updated amendment that addresses concerns and ensures a balanced approach to the licensing scheme.  

Emphasising the importance of a glue trap licence, Mr Mountain’s amendments aimed to restrict its use to situations where no satisfactory alternative exists and with the “purpose of preserving public health or public safety”. 

Additionally, the proposed amendments outlined the necessity for approved training courses in glue trap usage, ensuring pest controllers meet specific criteria, maintaining professionalism in the industry.  

Following updates on the licensing scheme being drafted in England, BPCA are confident that a workable scheme which addresses animal welfare and public health concerns is feasible, and we hope the Scottish government will introduce a similar amendment in Stage 3 of the Bill.  

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