I am a passionate believer in high standards of animal welfare, and I'm proud of the fact that the UK is a world leader in this field. That's exactly as it should be. By way of background, I was one of a group of backbenchers that campaigned to increase the penalties for people who abuse animals from six months in prison to five years. I also spoke out in favour of a ban on the ivory trade, later announced by the Government.
These two measures alone were hailed by the RSPCA as representing "a fortnight of incredible news for animal welfare in the UK".
Fox hunting is banned under the Hunting Act 2004, so whether or not an offence is being committed depends on whether or not the behaviour violates its provisions. I have made clear that I would not be in favour of repealing this legislation.
Since the introduction of the Hunting Act 2004 many hunts have turned to trail hunting as an alternative to live quarry hunting. This involves a pack of hounds following an artificially laid, animal-based scent. It closely mimics the hunting that took place before the ban, but does not involve a hunt for a live fox, so is not banned.
I recognise it is possible that dogs used for trail hunting may pick up and follow the scent of live foxes during a trail hunt. If that occurs, it is the responsibility of the huntsman and women and other members of hunt staff to control their hounds and, if necessary, stop the hounds as soon as they are made aware that the hounds are no longer following the trail that has been laid. Not doing so could be deemed an offence.
If any wild animal was hunted intentionally, this can lead to a prosecution and an unlimited fine. As you will appreciate criminal offences need to be properly reported and investigated. Anyone who believes that an offence has taken place during a hunt, including during a trail hunt, should report the matter to the police. If you would like to pass it any evidence directly to me then I will certainly take it up with the relevant authorities. Please be assured that any communication will be dealt with by my office in complete confidence.
