BASC and shooting praised by Labour Shadow Ministers

Shooting’s conservation credentials and BASC’s work on firearms licensing were just two of many topics raised by Labour Ministers at the Rural Reception at the Labour Party Conference. 

One of the issues raised at the reception co-hosted by BASC and the Angling Trust was the need for the Labour Party to win rural seats to form a government.

Speeches by Shadow Minister for Food Farming and Fisheries, Daniel Zeichner MP, and Shadow Minister for Policing, Sarah Jones MP, were warmly welcomed by the more than 100 MPs, peers, delegates and representatives of organisations who attended.

Daniel Zeichner MP referred to his visit to The Game Fair earlier this year saying, “It’s always good to hear from the people who understand the nuts and bolts of how the countryside works.

“It has been said that Labour stopped listening to the countryside and that was a mistake.

“We still have work to do on our manifesto but we have been working hard on it and we appreciate the advice that we have been given by BASC. There will always be some differences but it’s imperative we have good channels of communication.”

Sarah Jones MP spoke about the challenges facing rural Britain and firearms licensing. She said: “I know BASC is doing a lot of work on medical markers and we need to work together on this. We need an efficient licensing system that gives all parties involved what they need, which includes making sure that people who are not well do not have licences.”

Following the speeches, BASC vice-chair Claire Sadler said: “It was fantastic to see such a well-supported Rural Reception at the Labour Party Conference.”

“Labour knows it needs to win rural seats and to do that the Party needs to listen to those who live, work and operate in the countryside. BASC is working hard to ensure the Labour Party understands the needs of those involved in shooting and conservation.”