BASC’s white paper on grouse shooting has been highlighted in the parliamentary briefing paper produced ahead of the House of Commons debate on Monday.
The 22-page briefing document outlines conclusions from the white paper about the benefits of grouse shooting to both the economy and rural communities. Grouse shooting is worth £100 million to the UK economy and supports the equivalent of 2,500 full-time jobs.
An interactive infographic published by BASC, which outlines the positive economic, social and environmental contributions of grouse shooting, is also referred to in the briefing document.
Sophie Hutchinson, BASC’s political affairs manager, said: “By drawing on our white paper, this briefing note informs the debate and provides recognition of the important positive contribution of grouse shooting to a sustainable future of conservation and ecosystem service provision for the uplands.
“BASC is calling on policymakers to listen to and work with the grouse shooting community to consider supportive evidence-based uplands policy rather than responding to the emotive hysteria created by celebrities.”
BASC chairman Peter Glenser said: “We are delighted to see that our white paper is being used to provide evidence to government and other politicians in support of grouse shooting ahead of this debate. Although there will not be a ‘yes-no’ vote on grouse shooting, this 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.
“People should not take their foot off the pedal though, there is still time to get your voices heard by lobbying your MP – click here and make sure you have your say.”