Hares Preservation Bill [HL]

A Bill to repeal the Hares Preservation Act 1892 and to make provision to prohibit the killing or taking of hares during the breeding season.

Originating House

House of Lords

Last Updated

5 May 2021

In Plain English

AI-generated

This Bill would repeal the Hares Preservation Act 1892 and introduce a complete ban on killing or taking hares during their breeding season. It aims to provide stronger protection for hares by changing the existing law. The Bill is currently being debated in the Lords at its second reading.

Key Points

Replaces the Hares Preservation Act 1892 with new provisions.
Prohibits killing or taking hares during the breeding season.
Creates a new legal framework to protect hares.
Currently at the second reading in the Lords; next steps include committee stage and further readings.

Progress

The Bill is at the second reading in the Lords. If it progresses, it would move to committee stage in the Lords, followed by report and third readings, before moving to the House of Commons for consideration.

Who is affected?

Hares and their habitatsHunters and shooting organisationsFarmers and landowners in hare-inhabited areasWildlife conservation and animal welfare organisationsLocal authorities and police enforcing wildlife laws

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - Hares Preservation

1 Jan 1970

First reading took place on 23 January. This stage is a formality that signals the start of the Bill's journey through the Lords.

Second reading - the general debate on all aspects of the Bill - is yet to be scheduled.

The 2019-2021 session of Parliament has prorogued and this Bill will make no further progress.

Documents (1)

HL Bill 59 (as introduced)

BillLords

23 Jan 2020

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

Hares Preservation Bill [HL] | TrackPolitics