New SSPCA powers to help tackle wildlife crime

In response to the independent Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) Taskforce report, the Scottish Government is proposing to bring forward provisions to allow for a limited extension of the Scottish SPCA’s current powers to investigate wildlife crime.

The proposal would provide SSPCA inspectors with additional powers to search, examine and seize evidence in connection with specified wildlife crime offences under Part 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and certain offences in the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Bill 2023.

Following further consultation with stakeholders the proposed changes will be brought forward as an amendment at Stage 2 of the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Bill 2023. The Bill is currently before the Parliament and we welcome more evidence on this being provided at Stage 1.

Announcing the new measures, Environment Minister Gillian Martin said:

“Following consideration of the SSPCA Taskforce’s report, I can announce that I will be bringing forward provisions in the Wildlife Management and Muirburn Bill to allow for a limited extension of the SSPCA’s current powers to investigate wildlife crime.

“The powers will allow the SSPCA to - in certain circumstances - search, examine and seize evidence in connection with specified wildlife crime offences. We will be consulting with key stakeholders on the proposals over the summer.

“I would like to thank those involved for their consistent hard work and diligence throughout this process.”

You can see the full response at the link: Scottish Government response to Taskforce Report on SSPCA Powers.