Recent coverage by Field Sports Channel News has highlighted growing concerns within the shooting, working dog, and rural communities following the Westminster Government’s response to the petition calling for shotguns not to be placed on Firearm Certificates (FACs).
The Home Office has justified its position on the grounds of public safety. However, many within the field sports community point out that the public safety checks for Shotgun Certificate (SGC) and Firearm Certificate holders are already effectively the same, raising questions about the necessity and proportionality of the proposed change.
Why This Matters
The government has cited the tragic Plymouth shooting as part of its justification. However, as reported, this incident resulted from serious failures within a local firearms licensing department rather than shortcomings in the licensing framework itself. Many believe the focus should instead be on properly resourcing and training licensing departments, not imposing additional restrictions on responsible certificate holders.
Further concerns have been raised about wider legislative pressures on countryside activities, including proposals that could affect trail hunting, working dogs, and traditional rural practices. These developments collectively pose a risk to law-abiding shooters, dog owners, and field sports heritage.
Standing Up for Rural and Working Dog Communities
The Jack Russell Terrier Club of Great Britain (JRTCGB) has long supported responsible ownership, working dog traditions, and the preservation of countryside heritage. Alongside other organisations and clubs, JRTCGB has expressed an interest in protecting hunting and working terriers as part of the UK’s intangible cultural heritage, ensuring these traditions are understood and safeguarded for future generations.
How You Can Help
There is still an opportunity to make your voice heard. By signing the official Parliamentary petition, you can show support for fair, evidence-based policy and stand with the wider rural community.
👉 Sign the petition here:
https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/750236
Every signature helps demonstrate the strength of feeling among responsible shooters, dog owners, and countryside supporters.
Watch the Full Report
For more background and context, you can watch the full Field Sports Channel News report here:
Together, we can support responsible field sports, protect working dog traditions, and ensure that future legislation is based on facts, fairness, and proper understanding of rural life.