The justifications for this rich man’s ‘sport’. Owners have invested £52.3 million in the last year in conserving the moors. Other ground nesting birds such as curlews, golden plovers and lapwings benefit from the management. Over 1000ha of woodland has been planted on fringe areas. 1500 full time jobs are created.
None of the above stands up to much in the way of an argument. Add in the flood damage that can be caused by repeated burning and the destruction of peat and CO2 emissions it is yet another travesty that this archaic tradition continues. And PS. the governments action so far has, as they knew, been unenforceable.
The libertarian attitude that it is their land to do as they please does not stand in a truly democratic society. Something the Royal Family need to understand – the Queen has gained exemptions from 100’s of laws affecting ting her properties (which are basically ours anyway). In the Lake District off road drivers are ruining landscapes – to my mind it would not be that difficult to stop, basically with a law, and then physical obstacles.
Public spaces are being closed off in our cities too. Areas locked and closed off to the public. BREXIT was about taking back control from Brussels – the public needs to take back control of our land from the privileged and the monied minority. Remember that these are the people who sell off their land for development when the price is right, regardless of social or environmental concerns (and with the full backing of the nasty party and its backers – money talks more than ever).