There are rumours that Secretary of State for Environment Michael Gove is prepared to fast-track a decision on the release of lynx, according to the National Sheep Association (NSA).

The NSA has called on farmers to voice unanimous concerns on the proposal from the Lynx UK Trust to release Lynx in Kielder forest.

“I would go as far as urging every farmer who has views over this to write to the Secretary of State so he can appreciate the strength of stake©holder concerns, which go way beyond the losses that will be suffered by sheep farmers,” NSA chief executive Phil Stocker said.

The Lynx UK trust submitted an application to Natural England earlier this year. The NSA said it has been assured that no decision will be made without agreement from relevant Scotland authorities.

A Natural England spokesperson told Farmers Journal Scotland that “any decision to grant a licence to reintroduce lynx into the wild in England will be based on the impacts on affected communities, the wider environment and follow international guidelines.”