I have reiterated my strong opposition to the Government’s proposed changes to shotgun licensing, which I believe risk causing serious harm to rural communities like ours.
While these proposals have been described as technical reforms, in practice they would make it significantly harder for law-abiding people to obtain and retain a shotgun licence. That would place unnecessary burdens on responsible citizens and create real uncertainty for rural businesses that depend on a stable and proportionate system.
In our area, shooting is not only a long-standing tradition but also an important part of the rural economy, supporting jobs in farming, gamekeeping, hospitality and retail. Any changes to licensing must be evidence-based and proportionate, and must not unfairly penalise those who follow the rules.
I have already pressed Ministers directly, both publicly and through parliamentary channels, to make clear the strength of feeling on this issue. I will continue to oppose these disproportionate proposals and argue for a balanced approach.
We can and must protect public safety, but we must also stand up for rural jobs, traditions and communities.
