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Mr Tim Andrews
Biodiversity Programme
Defra Rm 1/11
Temple Quay
2 The Square
Temple Quay
Bristol
BS1 6EB
Mr John Swift
Chief Executive
British Association of Shooting and Conservation
Marford Mill
Rossett
Wrexham
LL12 0HL
02 March 2010
Dear Mr Swift,
Lead Ammunition Group 2010 – Invitation
This letter is to formally invite you to chair a high level group (Lead Ammunition Group) being set up to look at the issues surrounding lead ammunition, focusing on the possible impacts for wildlife of lead from ammunition, the welfare implications of available alternatives and potential effects from contaminated food on human health. This is a joint move by the Department (Defra) and the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in response to increasing concerns relating to the issue.
Since investigating the possibility of setting up this group, it has become apparent that there is a wide level of interest from a number of stakeholders wishing to be involved. We have decided, in order to ensure the group remains focussed and as effective as possible, that the size of the group should be restricted. Due to the level of interest, it is envisaged that the group you have been invited to chair will provide the overarching direction and focus, making way for any subgroups the group sees fit to convene. As more nominations were received for the main group than could be accommodated; it would be constructive if this level of enthusiasm could be maintained through encouraging involvement in subgroups. At the first meeting, a list of interested parties, that Defra/ FSA are aware of, will be provided for the group to consider in the context of possible subgroups.
In order to give the group structure and a starting point, we have appointed you as the Chair and provided draft terms of reference. Defra will also provide the secretariat and venue for the meeting, however it should be noted that because of the nature of the group i.e. a group set up to advise a government department and agency, there will not be government representation at this group.
We hope members of this group, beyond representing their respective organisations, will also bring to the table skills, expertise and knowledge of their sector. This will ensure any recommendations the group makes are based upon an open, broad and transparent dialogue. Please find attached further details of the group and the terms of reference. We would be grateful if you could confirm by Monday 8 March, whether or not you accept the invitation to be a member of the Lead Ammunition Group.
Yours sincerely
Tim Andrews
Biodiversity Programme
BY EMAIL
Direct Line 0117 372 6170
Fax 0117 372 8182
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