BASC’s Conor O’Gorman on UK shooting policy and conservation

England: Protecting Shooting in Local Nature Recovery Strategies

As the UK’s largest shooting organisation, BASC represents members across many policy areas. In England, BASC is engaging with local authorities to ensure shooting is recognised in their Local Nature Recovery Strategies.

There are 48 strategy areas, each prioritising species and habitats for conservation. BASC highlights how shooting improves habitats and controls species that can cause damage if unmanaged.

Some local authorities have raised concerns about pheasant releasing. BASC corrected misinformation and explained how codes of practice ensure sustainable management.

Natural England has also faced criticism over its handling of the gamebird licensing regime in and around Special Protection Areas. BASC continues to support shoots affected by these restrictions.

Wales: progress in the sustainable farming scheme

The Welsh Sustainable Farming Scheme now permits gamebird releasing and feeding when following GWCT best practice guidelines. Game cover crops also count towards the 10% wildlife habitat requirement.

Future policy areas include deer, grey squirrel and predator management. This shift shows how BASC’s earlier arguments have influenced Welsh policy.

BASC is also gathering evidence for a cross-party inquiry into the value of shooting in Wales. The study covers employment, tourism, health and wellbeing, and biodiversity.

Scotland: natural capital and licensing challenges

In Scotland, the natural capital benefits of shooting were praised by Jim Fairlie MSP, the government’s agriculture and connectivity minister. Drawing on BASC’s 2024 report, he highlighted shooting’s £246 million annual contribution to Scotland. Benefits include carbon storage, habitat creation and biodiversity improvements.

This year also marked the second grouse season under Scotland’s new shoot licensing regime. BASC opposed the move but continues to ensure it remains workable and fair.

Muirburn licensing will begin in January 2026, after BASC forced a delay from September 2025. The organisation remains concerned that overly complex rules could increase wildfire risk. BASC continues to lobby for workable legislation.

Northern Ireland: defending against hunting ban proposals

In Northern Ireland, BASC is challenging a proposed ban on hunting wild mammals with dogs. The latest attempt came through a public consultation launched by MLA John Blair.

BASC has met members of the legislative assembly and raised concerns about the consultation’s shortcomings. The organisation has successfully opposed previous private members’ bills seeking a ban.

Stay Updated with BASC

This is just a snapshot of BASC’s ongoing work to defend and advance shooting across the UK. To stay up to date, visit the BASC news section and sign up for their weekly e-newsletter.