Source · Select Committees · Science, Innovation and Technology Committee
Recommendation 9
9
Not Addressed
Paragraph: 72
Over-densification of honeybee hives detrimentally impacts wild pollinators, necessitating broader conservation efforts.
Conclusion
Charismatic insect species, of which the honeybee is a prime example, serve as invaluable ambassadors for the field of entomology, rendering the subject more accessible to the public and bringing to public attention this often-overlooked animal group. The concentrations of high numbers of hives in a small number of specific geographical areas may have detrimental effects on wild pollinator species due to resource competition. Consequently, there is a need to extend the range of conservation efforts to include the over 270 wild species of bees in the UK, acknowledging the importance of preserving the entire spectrum of biodiversity for a more balanced and resilient ecosystem.
Government Response Summary
The government explains that expanding the National Bee Unit's remit to wild bee health would require legislative changes, and while NBU work indirectly helps wild pollinators and a BeeBase map exists, it does not commit to new specific conservation efforts for the 270 wild species of bees.
Paragraph Reference:
72
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
The National Bee Unit (NBU, part of the Animal and Plant Health Agency) includes 60 Bee Inspectors who deliver the Bee Health Programmes on behalf of Defra and wider government. Expanding the role of the NBU to include a focus on wild bee health would significantly widen the remit and require legislative changes. Bee Health Inspectors have specific responsibilities for the statutory control of notifiable diseases of honey bees which is covered in The Bees Act 1980, the Bee Diseases and Pests Control (England) Order 2006 and the Bee Diseases and Pests Control (Wales) Order 2006. Honey bees are defined as a minor food producing animal species so the principles and processes for controlling honey bee pests and diseases are similar to those used for other farmed animals. The NBU carry out surveillance, take contingency action against exotic threats and control pests and diseases. This is important for both reducing the spread to other honey bee colonies and wild pollinator species. The Pollinator Action Plan lists the actions that will be taken to deliver the National Pollinator Strategy. This includes an action for government and stakeholders to work in partnership to support both managed honey bee and wild pollinator health under the Healthy Bees Plan 2030 led by the NBU. The density of honey bee hives has long been a concern for both beekeepers and people who want to conserve wild pollinator species. Beekeepers fear that other beekeepers who introduce new hives into the locality will reduce the amount of forage available and lead to pest and disease spread. Many beekeepers appreciate that there should be sufficient forage available in an area for all pollinators. It is important for beekeepers to evaluate the local density of honey bee hives, wild pollinators present and forage availability before putting new hives in an area. However it can be difficult to find information which is up to date and specific enough to make such an assessment. In 2023 the NBU published a map on BeeBase which provides a heat map of hive density within 10 km squares. This allows beekeepers to assess the number of hives in an area. Some beekeeping groups also encourage beekeepers to be mindful of other hives when considering apiary sites, and also raise awareness of competition with other hives and wild pollinators.