Lib Dems praise fieldsports

The Liberal Democrats applauded the benefits that country sports offer the environment, at their recent party conference in Brighton.

Speaking at a rural reception hosted by BASC and the Angling Trust, Baroness Cathy Bakewell, the Lib Dem’s Lords spokesperson on environment, food and rural affairs, said: “I fully appreciate the contribution made by shooting and fishing to rural and coastal life. “I have spent many enjoyable hours sitting on river banks with my husband while he fishes and I am well versed in its benefits to the economy and the environment. “And shooting is a legitimate country sport that benefits the environment and rural economies and puts good, wholesome food on the table.

“Game meat is a marvellous, healthy product that deserves the widest possible recognition with the consumer. “Those who engage in fieldsports with high standards and have a high regard for animal welfare are an essential part of rural life.”