Groups raise concerns over Scotland’s Hunting With Dogs Bill
The British Association for Shooting and Conservation, Regional Moorland Groups and the Kennel Club have joined forces to raise concerns about the Hunting With Dogs (Scotland) Bill, which poses a threat to both rough shooting and field trials for gundogs.
Thousands of people partake in field trials and rough shooting throughout Scotland. Using dogs to flush rabbits from thick cover is an effective form of controlling rabbit infestations.
The groups met with MSPs to discuss their concerns and to highlight the many benefits of rough shoot days and gundog field trials.
Peter Clark, BASC Scotland public affairs manager, said: “The Scottish Government has stated that using more than two dogs to flush a rabbit out of cover to be shot will become illegal under the new Bill.
“Whilst we welcome the Section 6 of the Bill’s exception for game shooting, it isn’t sufficient to protect rough shooting and field trials.
“The exception would become invalid if a single rabbit was shot at a time when more than two dogs were being used to flush or retrieve game birds.”
Lianne MacLennan, national coordinator for Scotland’s Regional Moorland Groups added: “Rough shooting and gundog trials are at risk from the provisions of the Bill as it is currently set out.
“There is a real risk that the complexity of the legislation will deter people from taking part, as they will be worried they could inadvertently break the law, if their dog chases a fox or a rabbit. We believe the intention was not to stop all gundog trials or rough shooting, but that may be the end result.
“Both of these activities attract thousands of participants from across the UK and are an important part of country sports, bringing visitors to rural areas, supporting jobs and boosting expenditure in local pubs and shops.”
Rachael Hamilton, MSP for Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire, said: “As we continue to scrutinise the Bill in Parliament, I absolutely welcome the engagement we have had from stakeholders who are committed to ensuring that the government’s plans are well informed.”
The legislation is currently at Stage 1 and will soon be debated in the parliament.
