Q and A: Duncan Orr-Ewing

Is the head of species and land management at RSPB Scotland. He gives his views on the possibility of landowners being prosecuted for wildlife crimes committed on their estates by staff.

Is holding landowners responsible for wildlife crimes committed on their estates the best way forward?

Partially. We recognise that some landowners and their representative bodies are taking steps to try and tackle this. But certainly, to act as a deterrent, making them more responsible for the actions of their employees, is reasonable.

Is there a link between the location of landowners' estates and the areas where wildlife crime takes place?

It's a small number of estates that cause problems in this regard, but that small number of estates are having a significant impact on bird populations like golden eagles and hen harriers.

What do you think of media coverage of wildlife crime?

We have to recognise there is huge public interest in this area, which is understandable.

People are concerned about wildlife and the media reflects that. I think the coverage is fairly balanced. You tend to seek opinions from all spectrums.

What will be the next step in forming new legislation to tackle wildlife crime?

Mike Russell, the environment minister, has indicated a clear willingness to look at new legislation and gaps in the legislative framework that can be enhanced. Certainly, we have a few ideas we will bring to the table.