F1[7BProtection of nests and eggs.N.I.
(1)Subject to the provisions of the succeeding sub-section, it shall be unlawful for any person at any time to take, destroy or molest the nest or eggs of any game-bird.
(2)The owner or occupier of any land desirous of taking on land occupied by him the eggs of pheasants or partridges for the purpose of having them hatched out may apply in writing to[F2 the Department of the Environment and that Department], if satisfied that the eggs are to be used for that purpose only, may in writingF2. . . authorise that person to take such eggs, subject to such conditions as may be specified in the authority; and the taking of any eggs under and in accordance with the conditions of such an authority shall not be a contravention of the preceding sub-section.
(3)Any person who acts in contravention of any of the provisions of this section shall be guilty of an offence under this Act.]