DEFRA have extended the deadline to respond to their consultation on trophy hunting by a month. It now closes on February 25th.
While we have had verbal reassurance from MPs that this will not affect the export of antlers from deer shot in the UK, it is nevertheless an option that is proposed in the consultation. Such as export ban would have a devastating effect on some of our most isolated rural communities, especially in the Highlands, where deer stalking is an important part of the local economy. It would also have a severe effect on the very necessary yearly deer cull, which is mostly carried out by stalkers who are largely employed thanks to the fees paid by visiting hunters during stag season.
If you are an experienced stalker we would urge you to fill in the consultation, arguing against the detrimental effects of option 3. You can se eout response for guidance here. Ensure to supplement this with your own facts and experience.