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UK Government Reverses Stance on Swift Habitat Protection

10/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The UK government, under Housing Secretary Steve Reed, opposes a new amendment for swift bricks in new homes, reversing his previous support as Environment Secretary.
Campaigner Hannah Bourne-Taylor highlighted a 66% decline in the swift population since 1995 due to habitat loss.
A University of Sheffield study found that 75% of required bird and bat boxes were not installed.
Former environment secretaries Michael Gove and Thérèse Coffey urged Labour to back the amendment, questioning their commitment to nature.

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Story summary

The UK government, under Housing Secretary Steve Reed, opposes a new amendment for swift bricks in new homes, reversing his previous support as Environment Secretary.
Campaigner Hannah Bourne-Taylor highlighted a 66% decline in the swift population since 1995 due to habitat loss.
A University of Sheffield study found that 75% of required bird and bat boxes were not installed.
Former environment secretaries Michael Gove and Thérèse Coffey urged Labour to back the amendment, questioning their commitment to nature.