Defra’s call for evidence on gamebird shooting closed last month. The big question now is: what happens next? Evidence is only one part of any legislative process and what tends to be much more important is political motivation.

On the downside, this process only arose out of Defra's decision to include a proposal to license the release of game birds and game shooting in its Land Use Framework earlier this year. It would not be outrageous, therefore, to suggest that the call for evidence is an attempt to justify a position that the government has already taken.

Hunts across England and Wales have welcomed new faces into the hunting field as Newcomers to Trail Hunting Week returned for 2026, offering people of all ages the opportunity to experience following hounds.

The week began with National Trail Hunting Day, with flagship events hosted by the Percy, Suffolk, East Devon and Worcestershire hunts, before newcomers' meets took place across the country.

The Countryside Alliance has welcomed confirmation that concerns raised through our engagement with the National Energy System Operator (NESO) have helped minimise the impact of future energy development on agricultural land.

Following recent discussions with stakeholders, NESO has confirmed that feedback on agricultural land, food security and land use trade-offs was heard loud and clear, and reflected in the final design of the six energy pathways it has presented to the government for decision.

Two-thirds of voters now think that the government neglects rural people. But if we work together, we can turn that around. The Prime Minister has promised good growth in every postcode and to speak for all parts of the country. Rural businesses and communities are ready to play their part. What’s needed now is a government willing to work with the countryside - not against it.

Learn more about our fabulous new draw, which offers you the chance to win an exceptional day’s shooting for up to ten guns on this outstanding Norfolk estate.

 Show your support with the 2026 / 27 Season Badge and help fund the Campaign for Shooting.