They explore the potential need for bag returns in shooting wild game species. This conversation began around the subject of two grouse species - black grouse and ptarmigan, both of which can still be shot, despite the fact that they have a recent history of decline (and in the case of ptarmigan, population data is surprisingly scanty and difficult to determine).

DEFRA have published a consultation seeking views on proposed changes to Part 1, Schedule 2 (2.1) of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (WCA). Schedule 2.1 sets out which wild bird species may be killed or taken outside the “close season”.

The UK government has now published The REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2026, which set out restrictions on the use of lead ammunition.

We have been made aware that a UK Government amendment to the Crime and Policing Bill was published on 17 February which will remove sound moderators from firearms licensing controls and the requirement to be on the certificate and approved by police forces.

Talks have been ongoing with the Scottish Government in respect of the removal of relief in the recent Scottish budget.  We have highlighted our concerns in previous news articles.

Within the Local government finance circular 1/2026: settlement for 2026 to 2027 issued by Scottish Ministers to local authorities, at Paragraph 29 it states;

29. Shootings and deer forests will be however excluded from eligibility for Small Business Bonus Scheme relief from 1 April 2026, except where a) shooting rights are exercised solely for the purposes of deer management, including to prevent damage to woodland or to agricultural production, environmental management or vermin control

As previously highlighted, there was no consultation with rural agencies by Ministers, which has led to widespread confusion and concern.  With our partners in RELM, we are still awaiting definitive answers to the queries we submitted to the Scottish Government.

As you will likely be aware, the Home Office, at the Home Secretary's behest, is due to launch a consultation on firearm licensing, likely in the first half of 2026.

As you will know, the Home Office indicated some time ago that it will be holding a consultation on firearms licensing in light of the Keyham tragedy and the reports subsequently issued by the Coroner, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, and a separate report from the Scottish Affairs Committee.

His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) are carrying out a thematic inspection of the firearms licensing system across police forces in England and Wales.

You will understand that there was significant concern raised within the shooting community about the use of Crimestoppers in Cumbria in respect of legally held firearms and certificate holders.