THE UK’s largest shooting organisation, the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC), believes today’s Parliamentary debate on grouse shooting is the chance to dispel myths promoted by anti-shooting extremists.
The debate follows a joint meeting of the Petitions Committee and the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee earlier this month.
BASC’s white paper on grouse shooting was highlighted in the parliamentary briefing paper produced ahead of today’s House of Commons debate. The 22-page briefing document highlights that grouse shooting is worth £100 million to the UK economy and supports the equivalent of 2,500 full-time jobs.
Duncan Thomas, BASC’s northern director, said: “Today will not end with a vote, but the debate gives a voice to those who know the benefits of grouse shooting while exposing the myths and propaganda spouted by the antis and the celebrity extremists.
“Our written evidence to the petitions committee on grouse, our white paper and our infographic have all been submitted to help inform the debate and provide recognition of grouse shooting’s positive contribution to the economy and conservation.”
BASC chairman Peter Glenser said: “We were delighted to provide evidence to government and other politicians in support of grouse shooting ahead of this debate, which is an opportunity to inform the wider debate of its undeniable benefits to rural economies and to conservation.
“The government is committed to helping create a sustainable future for the uplands and grouse shooting is an essential part of that long-term strategy.”
ENDS