Grouse Debate
Another House of Commons debate on Grouse Shooting, but this time the 'banners' had very little support!
Yet again we had another House of Commons debate on Grouse Shooting, which took place on 30th June. This was sparked by a petition organised by the anti-shooting campaigners Wild Justice. It again highlighted the gulf between perception and reality when it comes to upland land use. However, what was very surprising to those of us pro Grouse shooting, was the appalling lack of support the “banners” had in the debate; it was almost comical how having orchestrated the debate and yet when it came to it, they had so little support.
As with previous attempts, campaigners painted Grouse shooting as “bad for people, the environment and wildlife” and “economically insignificant.” The reality, however, was made starkly clear in the House, with MPs from across the UK robustly defending the practice. John Lamont MP and former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak highlighted the annual economic benefit to rural areas including the 3,000 jobs which are supported through Grouse Shooting. Gamekeepers were also credited for preventing wildfires, boosting biodiversity, and managing some of the last strongholds for curlew, lapwing and golden plover. Labour’s Sam Rushworth acknowledged the positive role of moorland management — proof that support exists across the political spectrum.
Only Olivia Blake MP spoke in favour of a ban, citing concerns about peat burning and over-commercialisation. Yet her claims ignored the growing body of evidence that well-managed Moors deliver better conservation outcomes than those left unmanaged — Lake Vyrnwy being a prime example of failure when management is removed.
In short, Parliament agreed: driven Grouse shooting is vital to the countryside. The Petition was rejected, and there will be no immediate legislative changes. However, with pressure from anti-shooting groups ever present, our sector cannot afford complacency. The message is clear: keep managing land properly, keep recording the evidence, and keep making the case.
Article written by Will Southall
Director of JM Osborne Rural & Sporting
