BASC welcomes government support for sustainable grouse shooting

BASC has welcomed the Government’s robust response to a petition calling for a ban on driven grouse shooting. 

In the response, the Government said it has no plans to ban grouse shooting, recognising its significant environmental, economic, and conservation benefits.

The Government highlighted that well-managed grouse shooting can play an essential role in rural economies, providing direct and indirect employment while contributing to wildlife and habitat conservation. The response also emphasised the importance of preserving the UK’s uplands, which are home to 75 per cent of the world’s remaining heather moorland, and vital for carbon storage, biodiversity, and water regulation.

BASC head of uplands, Alex Farrell, said: “We welcome the Government’s clear recognition of the value of well-managed grouse moors for both the environment and rural communities. Moorland managed for sustainable grouse shooting is a cornerstone of conservation in our uplands, delivering benefits such as peatland restoration, biodiversity protection, and economic stability.

“The Government’s support highlights the critical role of responsible land management in addressing global challenges like climate change and nature recovery. The shooting community remains committed to working within the law and collaborating with conservation groups, government bodies, and the National Wildlife Crime Unit to tackle wildlife crime and ensure the sustainability of our uplands.”

BASC operates a strict zero-tolerance policy on wildlife crime and backs the government’s commitment to ensure essential predator control is carried out legally and responsibly.

The Government’s unequivocal response reflects the importance of maintaining a sustainable balance between shooting, conservation, and the economic benefits shooting brings to rural and often remote upland communities. BASC will continue to work tirelessly to ensure these benefits are protected and enhanced for future generations.