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. I am also a supporter of the ban on hunting, and would oppose any attempts to repeal it.
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 at the time by the RSPCA as representing “a fortnight of incredible news for animal welfare in the UK”.
I am concerned to read that trail hunting is being used as a ‘mirage’ or ‘smokescreen’ for illegal hunting activity. If there is evidence to that effect, it must be for the police and Crown Prosecution Service to investigate, and bring charges if appropriate. Whilst I cannot properly direct the police, as they are rightly independent of politicians, I would hope and expect action to be taken where evidence of such diversion tactics exists.
On the issue of the use of the Crown estate, I will indeed raise this matter in person with the relevant minister.