Explanatory note

This Order amends the Spring Traps Approval (Scotland) Order 2011 (“the 2011 Order”). It comes into force on the 3 January 2019 with the exception of article 6, which comes into force on the 1 April 2020.

The 2011 Order specifies the types and makes of trap which are approved for use under section 50(1)(b) of the Agriculture Act 1948 (“ the 1948 Act”). It is an offence to use a spring trap which is not approved for the purposes of that section and section 50(1) (c) of the 1948 Act creates offences relevant to unlawful use. This order makes amendments to the categories of trap which are approved for use and the conditions to which the use of particular traps are subject.

The Order was notified in draft to the European Commission and other Member States in accordance with Directive (EU) 2015/1535 of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down a procedure for the provision of information in the field of technical regulations and of rules on Information Society services^f1.

No business and regulatory impact assessment has been prepared for this Order as no impact upon business, charities or voluntary bodies is anticipated.