Opponents to game shooting continually spread misinformation and bias in the media, in Parliament, across the devolved administrations, and on the ground. The Campaign for Shooting challenges these with the latest scientific evidence and knowledge, and in doing so we manage and reduce political risk at all levels, helping secure and enhance the long-term sustainability of shooting and its associated land management practices.

But the threats that face game shooting are very real, and it would be dangerous to underestimate them. The government is preparing to consult on restricting shotgun ownership by aligning parts of firearms licensing legislation, and ignoring the latest available science and evidence they have also proposed an extension to the existing restrictions on the controlled burning of vegetation on peatlands which would make it all but impossible to manage vast areas of our uplands. The government has already increased firearms licensing fees to provide full-cost recovery for police forces, having made no effort to consult or engage with stakeholders, or shown how those increases were calculated. They are also looking at banning the use of “snare traps”, which may include in its definition humane restraints, an irreplaceable management tool. Calls for a ban on driven grouse shooting continue, the releasing of gamebirds has been restricted, and we still await the government’s long overdue announcement on the timeframe for the transition from lead shot, and whether it will follow the 5-year transition recommended by the Health and Safety Executive or follow the European Commission with its shorter transition period of three years.

The Campaign for Shooting is there to challenge all these threats, and others, on your behalf, and it is essential that we have the necessary resources if we are do so effectively. Our opponents are well funded, and the income generated through the sale of the Campaign for Shooting’s Season Badge is extremely important as all proceeds go directly towards our campaigning. Please help us, and be seen to be doing so, by buying a badge and encouraging your friends to do likewise. This year’s new 2025/26 Season Badge is now available and can be bought here.