asked the Prime Minister if he will make arrangements for the functions at present exercised by the Home Secretary under the Protection of Birds Acts 1954 to 1976 to be transferred to the Secretary of State for the Environment.

Yes. In view of the Secretary of State for the Environment's responsibilities for the administration of similar legislation affecting wild life and its conservation, and following a review of departmental responsibilities in this area, I am arranging, with the agreement of the Ministers concerned, for this change, which does not require legislation, to take effect from 1st April. The change affects England and Wales only.