
BASC vice-president stands up for gamebird release in Parliament
Speaking at debate in the House of Commons, Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown has heavily criticised Defra over it’s handling of gamebird release licences in protected areas.
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More than 200 people attended a packed rural reception hosted by BASC and the Angling Trust at the Reform UK Party Conference at the NEC in Birmingham on Saturday.
The event was the first in a series of rural receptions set to be held by BASC and the Angling Trust at the party conferences this Autumn.
Speakers at the Reform UK reception included the leader of Kent County Council, Councillor Linden Kemkaran.
Councillor Kemkaran told guests at the reception: “At first glance, fishing and shooting may seem like simple hobbies, but when you look closer, you see a deeper story of conservation, education, community and care for the countryside.
“BASC has been the pioneering force in conservation for decades. It is amazing how many BASC members are involved in managing habitats for wildlife, helping control invasive species, and supporting the recovery of endangered birds.
“They also help maintain wetlands and woodlands that are vital to biodiversity – work that benefits many more species than just game.”
Following the reception, BASC’s executive director of communications and public affairs Christopher Graffius said: “This was a very successful conference. As an all-party organisation, BASC attends all conferences and looks forward to the Green, Liberal Democrat, Labour and Conservative conferences in the weeks ahead.”

Speaking at debate in the House of Commons, Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown has heavily criticised Defra over it’s handling of gamebird release licences in protected areas.

Shadow Defra Secretary of State Victoria Atkins MP paid tribute to shooting and fishing at BASC’s Conservative Party rural reception.

The Stalking Show 2025, sponsored by BASC, delivered an outstanding weekend focused on stalking and deer management.