Judge slams “bullying” tactics – as BASC’s High Court ruling stands

- Latest news

September 3, 2026

Natural England (NE) has lost its bid to appeal a High Court ruling that it acted unlawfully over gamebird release licensing – and been told the original ruling now takes effect immediately, with no further delay granted.

BASC returned to the High Court today (Thursday 3 September) for the latest hearing in its challenge against the quango, which was found in July to have overstepped its powers in the way it licensed the release of gamebirds.

At today’s hearing, Mr Justice Ritchie confirmed his original judgment stands, refusing NE permission for an appeal and dismissing its request to pause the ruling while it considered its next steps.

Mr Justice Ritchie also described an earlier threat to withdraw all licences subject to review as tantamount to “bullying”. In summing up today, the judge said he hopes that in future NE will act in a professional and proper way without “idle threats”.

BASC used its Fighting Fund to bring the case, arguing that NE’s approach had created significant uncertainty for shoots on or near Special Protection Areas (SPAs), even forcing some to close.

The judge ordered that BASC should receive 100 per cent of its legal costs. He also emphasised the human toll of NE’s actions, felt by rural workers, businesses and the communities built around shooting.

Our fight doesn't end here

Following the hearing, BASC chief executive, Ian Bell, said: “Once again, the judge has reaffirmed that the quango acted outside the law, going as far as to say its behaviour was tantamount to bullying.

“We must not forget the consequences. Some shoots were forced to close because of Natural England’s actions, and people’s businesses and livelihoods were affected. That matters.

“But our fight doesn’t end here. Tomorrow the government launches a two-month call for evidence on gamebird shooting. Make no mistake, this is a fight for the future of shooting, and we need to be ready. BASC will set out what it means, what’s at stake, and what our members and the wider sector need to do.

“Those who want to see shooting shut down will be mobilising now; we need to mobilise too, and we need to do it better. We’ve shown time and again that when our community stands together, we can make a difference.

“So, today we celebrate this victory. Tomorrow, we get back to work. I have no doubt that our members and the wider shooting community will come together to defend our sport, our livelihoods and our way of life.”