Regular reviews must take place to monitor new Natural England enforcement sanctions which come into effect today, the NFU has said.
The additional ‘civil sanction’ powers will be used against those who cause harm to wildlife and the natural environment, as an alternative to prosecution and criminal penalties.
The NFU has said it is supportive in principle of giving regulators access to a wider range of punitive tools to tackle businesses which break the law. But we’ve asked for regular review periods to ensure the use of such sanctions is as effective, consistent and proportionate as possible.
Skills and better regulation adviser Lee Osborne said: “The NFU appreciates the work carried out by Natural England in developing these proposals for the use of civil sanctions and for involving the NFU in that work.
“Our response to the consultation underlined the need for clarity and transparency in these sanctions for regulators, and their use needs to be proportionate and consistent.
“The new sanctions should not replace existing informal methods, such as advice and guidance, to address minor non-compliance. We will continue to provide feedback to, and work with, Natural England to ensure civil sanctions are used appropriately and achieve their intended aims.”
While the NFU wants to see a fairer, more proportionate approach to environmental enforcement it has made it clear to Natural England through the consultation process that:
- It needs to demonstrate a ‘no surprises’ approach when carrying out enforcement action
- Training and guidance should be provided for enforcement staff to ensure a consistent and proportionate approach
- Regular reviews need to be held with Natural England receptive to issues or concerns
- Advice and guidance should remain the normal response in the majority of cases of non-compliance.
Full details on how NE can use the new powers are available here. Click here to visit our environment news channel.
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