The benefits of shooting and angling were highlighted at a rural reception hosted by the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) and the Angling Trust at the Liberal Democrats’ conference in Birmingham.
Roger Williams MP praised the economic value of shooting and angling.
He said: “As we all know the rural economy goes through good and bad times so it is good to see BASC and the Angling Trust providing these two very beneficial rural activities, managing them well and promoting them which in turn contribute so much in financial terms.”
Lord Redesdale said the contribution which both shooting and angling make to the economy should be emphasised.
He said: “We tend to be apologetic about shooting. However, as with angling, it is a fantastic sport and generates a vast amount of money which goes back into the rural economy and we should be proud of this and continue to do our utmost to carry on making people aware of its benefits.”
BASC and the Angling Trust will also be holding events at the Conservative and Labour party conferences.
ENDS
Pictured is Lord Redesdale addressing the meeting.