Covid-19 Ban On Muirburn Was ‘Opportunistic', Says SGA

As the fire service denies seeking a ban on heather burning, there is concern that some are exploiting the situation to their own ends

- Matt Cross

Gamekeepers have hit back at a ban on muirburn in Scotland introduced in emergency coronavirus legislation earlier this month.

The ban was included as an amendment to the Coronavirus (Scotland) Act 2020 by Scottish Green Party MSP and long-term grouse shooting opponent Andy Wightman, who claimed it was necessary to reduce demand on the emergency services.

However, Shooting Times has seen emails between a senior officer of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and a keeper that make it clear the service was not seeking a ban.