Hunt ban is working
The first hunting day since the ban on hunting wild mammals with dogs came into force passed largely without incident. Many hunts and hunters went riding with their hounds, but stayed within the law. This confirms that the Hunting Act is clear, simple and easy to obey. Anyone who wants to stay within the law will have no difficulty in doing so.
Acknowledging that feelings on both sides remain high, Rural Affairs Minister, Alun Michael, paid tribute both to hunt supporters and opponents mostly avoiding violent confrontration. He also thanked the police for the professionalism of their approach.
Asked to comment on the day’s events, the Minister said:
“I never thought the first day should be given a great deal of emphasis. Legislation is for the long term future not just for one day. Considering how strongly feelings are held on both sides of the hunting debate, it is to the credit of everyone involved that the day passed without serious incident. Hunters have demonstrated that they can hunt within the law by continuing their other activities but not chasing wild mammals.”
Asked about the newspaper pictures of hunters parading fox carcasses, he commented:
“This has given offence in some quarters and it is for those involved to decide whether their behaviour was wise. The question is whether they are obeying the law. It is not possible to hunt by accident and I do not think it helps anyone to pretend that the law is unclear. It is not.”
“Our priority as a Govermnet remains - as it has been throughout this Parliament - to tackle the issues that really matter to the large majority of rural people, such as housing, transport, health, education and jobs.”
Page last modified:
19 May, 2005
Page published: 21 February, 2005