Chuka Umunna MP

Last month marked the fifth anniversary of the hunting ban, passed in order to put an end to the cruel and degrading treatment inflicted upon foxes through hunting with dogs.

This act was passed through the commitment of campaigners, the League against Cruel Sports, the RSPCA and the support of the general public, and has proven its success, achieving 56 convictions thus far.

Although it was often suggested that individuals from rural communities would prefer to continue to allow hunting with dogs to take place, a recent IPSOS Mori poll has shown that 72% of those polled in rural areas would not be in favour of the ban being repealed.

David Cameron has stated that he would offer a free vote on the issue of repealing the act to MPs, and furthermore, that repealing it would be a priority if the Conservatives were to be successful at the next general election.

Nick Herbert, Tory Shadow Defra Secretary has suggested a future Tory Government would repeal the act. The fact that the Tories are keen to repeal an act that was shown by a recent IPSOS Mori poll to have the backing of 76% of UK citizens shows that they are more interested in pleasing the small few who, like David Cameron, have a history of participating in this cruel and degrading sport.

In a recent statement, Hilary Benn, Secretary of State for Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs responded to Tory calls to repeal the hunting ban by stating that: “If you think the Tories have changed, this makes it absolutely clear that their priorities haven’t. They know the public doesn’t agree with them on this, but they are determined to go ahead if they are given the chance. That’s why we need to continue to campaign to stop this barbaric ‘sport’ from returning to our land.

The Hunting Ban is a great Labour achievement and receives Chuka’s full support. Commenting, he said:

“The hunting ban is something which many people locally feel strongly about, and we must not allow a return of this cruel practice.

“The Conservatives have made it clear that bringing back hunting is something they prioritise.

“I will campaign strongly against any attempt to overturn the hunting ban. People who support the ban should join me in signing the online petition at http://www.backtheban.com.”

For further details on the campaign to keep the hunting ban in place visit http://www/keepcrueltyhistory.com