Three Liberal Democrat shadow ministers have voiced their support for shooting and angling at this year’s Rural Reception. The reception is held at the three major conferences by BASC and The Angling Trust.
Shadow Secretary of State for the Home Department, Chris Huhne MP, said: “As a party, we are absolutely committed to the rural economy. Rural activities are absolutely essential and we as a party should not obstruct shooting and fishing, but help to develop them… as a party we can make decisions and take votes which go towards helping countryside sports such as shooting and promoting the responsible use of guns.”
Shadow Minister for the Countryside and Rural Affairs, Tim Farron MP, said: “I think it is hugely important that we talk about the large numbers of people in sustainable employment as a result of both shooting and fishing. Shooting especially is massively misunderstood – it is a wonderful pastime and BASC goes a long way to educate the uninformed. Both shooting and fishing provide enormous benefits, but not just to the countryside but to the wider community in terms of rural recreation and conservation.”
Shadow Minister for the Home Office, Tom Brake MP, said: “I have certainly learnt things during this reception and can see the importance of shooting and angling within the constituencies and how it positively affects the people who live there. “
Agriculture spokesman, Lord Redesdale, said: “I recently had a BASC member come to cull some of my deer and have had all new trees planted on the estate – without the expertise of these qualified and knowledgeable people, this would not have happened.”
ENDS