
Rural livelihoods at risk due to firearms fees hike, says BASC
BASC has warned that the government’s decision to significantly increase firearms licensing fees poses a threat to rural livelihoods.
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BASC chief executive Ian Bell has presented the Value of Shooting report to the European Parliament, highlighting the UK aspect of the sector’s economic, environmental and social contribution across Europe.
The Value of Shooting report is the most comprehensive study of shooting’s impact in the UK. Produced by 24 partner organisations, it shows how shooting supports jobs, conservation and the wider rural economy, while also providing food, recreation and community benefit.
The presentation took place as part of launch of a landmark study by the University of Urbino, coordinated by FACE (European Federation for Hunting and Conservation). The research shows that hunting, shooting and related industries generate €180 billion every year and support more than 1.1 million jobs in 30 countries, including all EU member states, Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
Speaking at the event, BASC chief executive Ian Bell said: “Shooting enriches nature, boosts wellbeing, and supports the rural economy. In the UK alone, shooting contributes £3.3 billion GVA annually, manages over 7.6 million hectares for wildlife, and supports 146,700 jobs.
“Beyond the economic impact, shooting delivers friendship, a sense of purpose, and provides healthy wild game for the table – it is clearly of immense value to both people and nature.”
The European Parliament meeting, hosted by MEP Isabel Benjumea, heard that decisionmakers must recognise the importance of the sector when shaping policy. She said: “Hunting, sports shooting and their related sectors demonstrate strong benefits to society, which must be safeguarded, supported and actively promoted.”
The findings of the 2024 Value of Shooting support this view. Carried out by leading market research and data analytics firm Cognisense, the report details the following headline figures:
BASC has warned that the government’s decision to significantly increase firearms licensing fees poses a threat to rural livelihoods.
More than 200 people attended a packed rural reception hosted by BASC and the Angling Trust at the Reform UK Party Conference.
The majority of police forces in England and Wales have failed to confirm that fee increases will be used to fund firearms licensing departments.