HOLYROOD’S Rural Affairs and Islands Committee is set to undertake a fact-finding visit to Roxburghe Estates in the Scottish Borders on Monday 19 June.

Visiting the estate as part of its scrutiny of the Wildlife Management & Muirburn (Scotland) Bill, the Committee will gain further insight into how land managers manage moorland, by using for example, wildlife traps and muirburn, and using moorland for grouse shooting.

READ MORE: Dave's 300 mile walk in memory of mum who died from MND

Members will consider whether the bill’s proposals to regulate some of the ways moorland is managed – such as what types of wildlife traps should be permitted and whether the proposed licensing systems for land to be used to shoot red grouse and muirburn, the controlled burning of vegetation, are appropriate.

The Bill aims to address raptor persecution and ensure that management of grouse moors and related activities are undertaken in an environmentally sustainable and welfare conscious way.

READ MORE: Minor traffic disruption following crash in Gordon

Speaking ahead of the visit, Committee Convener and leader of the delegation, Finlay Carson MSP said: “Having recently received well over 5,000 responses to our call for views on this Bill, we understand the passionate interest stakeholders and the wider community in Scotland, and beyond, have in the detail of the Scottish Government’s proposals.

“Our fact-finding visit to Roxburghe Estates will help us to understand moorland management issues first-hand and inform our on-going consideration of the Bill.

The inquiry will also focus on the animal welfare and environmental impacts of the wildlife management measures included in the Bill.

READ MORE: Rangers won't take part in Lowland League next season

Committee Convener Finlay Carson MSP continued; “It is the Committee’s role to ensure that legislation passed by the Scottish Parliament provides a proportionate and workable solution that works for all.”

Committee Members visiting the estate will include delegation leader and Convener Finlay Carson MSP; Ariane Burgess MSP, Rhoda Grant MSP, Rachael Hamilton MSP and Beatrice Wishart MSP.