BY MARK CRUDGINGTON
In 2023, the HSE released its “Opinion on the Annex 15 dossier proposing restrictions on lead in ammunition.” As is often the case with reports from government organisations, the authors seem to opt for verbosity where brevity would suffice. One can easily lose enthusiasm while wading through a swamp of jargon that offers little substance. Regrettably, I’ve squandered a significant portion of my life deciphering this “fog,” but a few points did catch my attention.
Among them was a statement tucked away in the environmental risk section, suggesting a potential removal of all metallic lead from the British environment. The statement highlights the risk of lead transport into the aquatic environment from sites contaminated by lead ammunition.
While seemingly innocuous, this statement could have far-reaching consequences if a ban on lead in ammunition were to be enforced.
In their apparent eagerness to curtail shooting activities, the authors imply that any metallic lead in proximity to surface or ground water could face similar sanctions as lead used in ammunition. This could encompass everything from lead water pipes still in use to lead used in building materials such as roofing flashings on iconic structures.
This photo shows a No9 lead shot from a shotgun cartridge , it is twice the weight of .00084 Oz which is the weight of lead from ammunition left per sq. yard in this country . it measures .077″ ( 1.96mm)
The HSE estimates that 7000 tons of lead are used annually in the UK, spread over an area of approximately 95,960 square miles. This translates to a minute fraction of lead per square yard, raising questions about the disproportionate focus on ammunition.
The HSE’s approach appears myopic, relying on statements from organisations like the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust without concrete evidence. Their narrow focus on banning lead ammunition could compel organisations like the National Trust and the Church of England to remove all lead from their properties, regardless of its form or function.
Consider a place like Lundy, a small island in the Bristol Channel owned by the National Trust. Lead is extensively used in construction there, even in wooden buildings. Should the HSE succeed in banning lead in ammunition, it sets a precedent that could affect any metallic lead exposed to the elements, potentially causing widespread disruption and financial burden.
Replacing lead with alternative metals, such as copper, comes at a significant cost both financially and logistically. The sheer volume of lead that would need to be safely disposed of poses yet another challenge.
In essence, the HSE’s fixation on banning lead ammunition may inadvertently lead to catastrophic consequences for organisations like the National Trust and the Church of England. This outcome risks being remembered as the legacy of the DEFRA minister Steve Barclay MP, akin to the “Man who broke the bank of Monte Carlo,” all to appease the anti-fieldsports agenda of certain interest groups.
Let’s hope Mr Barclay avoids the traps being laid for him.
Mark Crudgington is a 2nd generation gunmaker, at large in Wiltshire. His company George Gibbs Ltd is nearing its 200th birthday. A passionate shot, angler, deer stalker and natural sceptic.