Swann disappointed government blocked simple measure to protect Swifts

The amendment would have required new homes in England and Wales, which are above five metres in height to include Swift bricks – small, low-cost nesting spaces built into walls to protect and restore the populations of swifts.

During the debate, the Government imposed a three-line whip to block the simple and sensible proposal. Mr Swann said: “This is an inexpensive and practical idea that could have made a real difference to conserve one of our native birds. It’s hard to understand why the Government felt the need to go to such lengths to stop it.

“Across the UK there’s a need for new housing and development, but we also have a duty to protect the natural world around us. Small changes like swift bricks show that development and conservation can go hand in hand.”

Mr Swann also paid tribute to his Ulster Unionist colleague, Lord Reg Empey for speaking and voting in favour of the amendment. During the debate, Lord Empey highlighted local conservation work in South Antrim saying: “In the Antrim area, a significant number of people are part of a swift group trying to help the native species recover. We should encourage that. I see no downside to the measure, and I support it. Their food source, insects, being fewer and farther between is always the biggest challenge for any native animal. But there is enough in this proposal to make it worthwhile, and I support it. I hope the House will do so.”

After the vote, Lord Empey added: “Having tried to persuade the Government to amend building regulations to require new build properties above five metres to install a swift brick, I was shocked to see the extent to which they went to block this simple and inexpensive measure.

“The Government says it supports the environment and wants to protect wildlife, but if it is prepared to go to such lengths to block a minor change like this, it really casts doubt on that claim. I am very disappointed.”