With the use of lead ammunition still a contentious issue among many conservationists (a recent petition to ban lead ammunition attracted over 17,000 signatures) the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust has updated their position statement on the subject and produced a brand new guide available for download which covers a number of the key aspects of the debate, including background information, the effects on human health, the effects on human wildlife and recent government action.

The purpose of the new guide is to present scientific fact in an easily digestible format so readers can understand the current situation clearly.

Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust would urge all in the shooting community to download and read the guide to ensure they have the latest information to hand on this important issue.The organization does not currently believe the evidence supports a ban on the use of lead ammunition, but does support:

• A wider understanding of the known risks posed by the use of lead ammunition.
• Discussion of the benefits and drawbacks of existing alternative ammunition types, and evaluation of their impacts.
• Increased research and development towards effective alternative ammunition types.
• More guidance from the Foods Standards Agency on how lead-shot game should be prepared and cooked to further minimize exposure to lead.
• Greater compliance with, and enforcement of, existing legislation designed to protect wildlife.
• Exploring the potential for a game market for birds shot with lead-free ammunition.