A government spokesperson said: “This story is categorically untrue. The government is working with Natural England to review options on species reintroduction, including beavers.”
It feels like there is an internal power play happening or it's a misunderstanding. I wouldn't be surprised if legacy Tory policies are put on temporary hold while they are reviewed just to ensure the last government hasn't slipped in measures designed to wreck Labour.
I'd give it a few weeks to see what shakes out.