Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire MSP, Rachael Hamilton has written to Natural England on the issue of the possible introduction of lynx in the Kielder Forest.
Natural England are to advise the Secretary of State for the Environment, Michael Gove, with a technical assessment, a feasibility study and an evaluation of the environmental and socio-economic risks and benefits, prior to the decision on a licence application for lynx.
Ms Hamilton has demanded in the letter that Natural England meet with Scottish farmers and Scottish Natural Heritage to discuss the implications of a lynx introduction given the issue will affect both sides of the Border.
Rachael Hamilton MSP said:
“Natural England must meet with not only those in England, but also those involved in Scotland to understand the implications that this possible introduction could have over the Border.
“We all know that this has the potential to be damaging to livestock farming on the Scottish side of the Border, and we need concrete assurances that farmers won’t be disadvantaged in any way.
“I will keep pushing to make sure that our hardworking farmers’ livelihoods will be protected and that their best interests are taken fully into account when Natural England report to Michael Gove”