CAMPAIGNERS calling for a grouse shooting ban at a beauty spot have accused Bradford Council’s leader of refusing to debate the issue.

Anti-bloodsports campaigners want the authority to pull out of a ten-year agreement to allow shooting on selected days on Ilkley Moor. Their 1,000-name petition calls for the re-think, and their request will be considered by the authority’s executive in the New Year.

But campaigners said when Bradford Young Greens tried to organise a public debate on the issue ahead of this decision, Council leader Councillor David Green refused to take part.

Luke Steele, of the group Ban Bloodsports on Ilkley Moor, said: “Cllr Green’s refusal to publicly debate is not only disappointing, but is cocking a snook at all who wish to see rational discussion on this matter.”

But Cllr Green said he had not been available for the debate as he had made a prior commitment. He added: “The executive has not yet made a decision, so I’m not quite sure what I can add to a public debate, other than saying that that is the position.”

Cllr Green said he would take part in a public debate at the executive meeting, where the decision would be taken.