Ban on lead pellets overturned
Summary of Proposed Restrictions
The proposed restrictions are as follows:
- Lead Airgun Pellets: Fortunately, no restrictions are currently proposed for lead airgun pellets. This marks a positive shift in the direction of regulation, as the previous proposal for restrictions has been dropped.
- Lead Shot for Live Quarry and Target Shooting: The consultation suggests a potential ban within five years, contingent on the consultation outcome. This decision emphasizes the commitment to preserving the environment and minimizing health risks.
- Rifle Ammunition for Live Quarry Shooting: At present, no restrictions are proposed. However, this stance may be subject to change depending on the consultation’s outcome. The concern here relates to potential secondary poisoning.
- Rifle Ammunition for Target Shooting: The use of lead ammunition for target shooting may continue on approved ranges, provided that appropriate mitigation measures for lead removal are in place. This proposal includes a two-year grace period to allow alternative ranges to take actions .
Although the above isn’t perfect it is at least a step in the right direction. It will be 2024 before the consultations are finalised and there may still be some changes but for now lead pellets will still be fine and the need to switch to alloy or copper pellets will not be needed.
