The exact number of wild deer in the UK is not known, but the government estimates there are about two million.
Hooton believed if the population was not controlled, numbers could continue growing, the natural environment would suffer and disease among deer could spread.
He said that deer meat had good nutritional value.
“We need a venison supply chain that can utilise all those animals being managed to protect the environment,” said Hooton.
“It’s a product that is really sustainable, it’s really good value in some areas, some people sometimes perceive it as a niche type product and it is, but the values shouldn’t be over and above any other meat product you’re buying.”