THE former leader of the Liberal Democrats has highlighted BASC’s work to promote high standards in shooting.
Lord Menzies Campbell addressed guests at a rural reception held jointly by BASC and the Angling Trust at the party’s annual conference in Bournemouth.
“I believe in responsible shooting,” said Lord Campbell.
“BASC provides an enormous range of services to its membership and plays a responsible part in the governance of shooting.
“I was a late convert to shooting and have enjoyed it immensely. Always in the back of my mind, though, was the importance of responsible shooting and BASC is at the forefront of promoting that.”
Christopher Graffius, BASC’s executive director of communications and public affairs, said: “BASC, as an all-party organisation, has always enjoyed a close working relationship with the Lib Dems. That is no different this year, despite the current political turmoil which appears to have people talking about little else other than Brexit.
“The rural reception continues to be a fantastic opportunity for BASC and the Angling Trust to highlight the role of our organisations, which have a stake in the health and prosperity of our countryside. That work to promote the benefits of our countryside will continue long after Brexit has been decided one way or another.”
BASC chairman Eoghan Cameron said: “BASC ensures that politicians and other policy makers never lose sight of shooting’s massive contribution to the management of the countryside. People who shoot spend 3.9 million work days on conservation – the equivalent of 16,000 full-time jobs and shoot providers spend nearly £250 million a year on conservation.”