Scottish Conservative Conference: ‘become true allies of rural Scotland’, says BASC

BASC urged MSPs to show a strong political voice for rural Scotland at last week’s Scottish Conservative & Unionist Party Conference.

Speaking at the Scottish Conservative & Unionist Party Conference, held from 13-14 June, BASC delivered an appeal to protect and promote the values, livelihoods and environmental contributions of rural Scotland.

At an event hosted by Tim Eagle MSP (pictured top), BASC Scotland director Peter Clark and Country Sport Scotland project manager Kirk Norbury expressed the positive impact of country sports. Highlighting their role in supporting jobs and boosting local economies, they also spoke of country sports driving nature conservation efforts across Scotland.

The crucial role shooting, deer stalking and sustainable land management play in safeguarding biodiversity and sustaining remote communities was also discussed at the conference.

“Rural Scotland is not just scenery – it’s work, it’s identity, it’s culture and it’s under pressure like never before,” Mr Clark said, urging all parties to vow to reduce red tape and increase funding for the shooting and conservation sector.

He went on to raise concerns over increasing government regulation, particularly mandatory training requirements for deer stalkers, warning it risks alienating experienced professionals and jeopardising future land stewardship.

Country Sport Scotland project manager Kirk Norbury spoke of the importance of strong rural voices championing a thriving rural economy with country sport tourism, shooting and conservation at its heart.