Enforcing restrictions on the import and trade of certain non-native species (E, W)

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12/01/2018

New criminal offences could be included in an array of tools proposed by the government to enforce measures introduced by ‘The EU Invasive Alien Species Regulation’ to tackle 49 species of non-native animals and plants that threaten native European species and are estimated to cost the British economy £1.7 billion pa.

The regulation, which came into force on 1 January 2015, includes a list of restrictions that prohibit the intentional

importing
keeping
breeding
transporting
selling
using or exchanging
permitting to reproduce, grow or cultivate
releasing into the environment any live examples of 49 listed species

Together, the measures comprise a three phase, hierarchical approach designed to combat the invasive species by

prevention
early detection and rapid eradication
management

The regulation is of particular relevance to businesses that import or trade non-native species, individuals or organisations that keep them and NGOs (non government organisations) with an interest in protecting the environment from them.

‘Invasive non-native species regulations: enforcement’ links to a consultative package that seeks views on a proposed enforcement regime for England and Wales that comprises tools ranging from advice and warning letters to civil and criminal penalties.