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Politicians pledge to support shooting at manifesto launch
Scotland’s mainstream political parties committed to support shooting and conservation for years to come at the launch of BASC’s manifesto for the Scottish Parliament elections in May.
The manifesto outlines a vision for the future of sustainable shooting and conservation in Scotland and was officially launched at BASC’s annual Gamekeeping and Wildlife Management Day, held at Scone Palace.
As part of the launch, BASC hosted a political panel featuring representatives from all major parties: Murdo Fraser (Conservative), Angela Bailey (Labour), Claire McLaren (Liberal Democrat), Malcolm Offord (Reform UK), and Jim Fairlie (SNP). The panel discussed sporting rates, sustainable shooting, and conservation; giving members a chance to hear party perspectives on issues affecting Scotland’s countryside.
Vision for the future
All parties present pledged to support shooting and conservation for years to come.
BASC’s manifesto outlines a vision for the future of sustainable shooting and conservation in Scotland, with key proposals including:
- Recognition of sustainable shooting and practical conservation as vital to Scotland’s rural economy, heritage, culture, food production, and community wellbeing.
- Acknowledgement that sustainable shooting delivers measurable environmental benefits and is a valuable resource in addressing climate change and biodiversity loss.
- Commitment from the Scottish Government to work collaboratively with practitioners, guided by scientific evidence and fact-based approaches.
- Review of current legislation and licensing frameworks to ensure they are practical, proportionate, and supportive of responsible self-regulation.
- Encouragement for political candidates to pledge support for sustainable shooting and conservation for future generations.
BASC’s annual Gamekeeping and Wildlife Management Day celebrates the essential role of gamekeepers in promoting conservation, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining rural communities across Scotland and the UK. It provides an opportunity to recognise the dedication and professionalism of those working on the ground while also shaping policies to support the sector’s long-term future.
The event featured dedicated workshops for BASC members, with expert speakers. Sessions highlighted innovation, research, and the cultural significance of gamekeeping, alongside practical strategies for land management and sustainability.
Jim Fairlie MSP, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, emphasised the importance of rural industries and their contribution to Scotland’s economy and communities to audiences at the event.
BASC Scotland director Peter Clark said: “BASC’s Gamekeeping and Wildlife Management Day is always a highlight in our calendar, bringing together gamekeepers, deer managers and others from across Scotland.
Sold out event
“The event sold out this year, which reflects the growing popularity of BASC events which demonstrate how we are the ‘best in the field’
“Hosting a political panel in combination with BASC’s manifesto launch was valuable, as it meant we had a commitment from all of Scotland’s mainstream parties to support shooting and conservation after the election.
“This manifesto reflects the real-world contribution of sustainable shooting to Scotland’s environment and rural communities.
“We were proud to launch it at Scone Palace and look forward to working with candidates and those that become policymakers to ensure these benefits are recognised and supported.”
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