EXCLUSIVE - George Freeman: "The real risk posed by the Government's shotgun licensing proposal is not to public safety, but to our rural way of life"

Mid Norfolk MP George Freeman writes on why Labour's reforms to shotgun licensing are 'misguided'. Instead, he argues why the shooting industry plays a crucial role in the heartlands of farming communities, the rural economy, to rural conservation, and people's enjoyment of country sports

clock • 4 min read
Conservative MP George Freeman said: "Game shooting brings much-needed income to rural economies, supporting local butchers and small businesses and providing healthy and sustainable food. Country sports are becoming increasingly important pillars of a rural economy already under huge pressure from high energy costs and agricultural disinvestment."
Image:

Conservative MP George Freeman said: "Game shooting brings much-needed income to rural economies, supporting local butchers and small businesses and providing healthy and sustainable food. Country sports are becoming increasingly important pillars of a rural economy already under huge pressure from high energy costs and agricultural disinvestment."

The Home Office proposal to lump shotgun licensing in with tighter controls historically reserved for rifles and other firearms marks a significant step in Whitehall hostility to country sports, the rural...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

 

More on Politics

Global Ag View: Farmers warn European Commission over danger of moving too slow in current crisis

Global Ag View: Farmers warn European Commission over danger of moving too slow in current crisis

European farming leaders have highlighted the mounting pressures hitting the sector

Alex Black
clock 24 April 2026 • 2 min read
Conservatives call on Gov to stop 'ridiculous' decision to increase fuel duty

Conservatives call on Gov to stop 'ridiculous' decision to increase fuel duty

With red diesel costs on the rise due to conflict in the Middle East, the decision to increase fuel duty will only see prices spike further

clock 24 April 2026 • 3 min read
From the editor: Food, farming and supply chain fairness

From the editor: Food, farming and supply chain fairness

This week from the Farmers Guardian editor Katie Jones

Katie Jones
clock 24 April 2026 • 2 min read