IFAW response to Hunting Act repeal threat

Shockingly the ban on hunting with dogs is under threat. The Daily Telegraph has reported that the new Government will offer MPs the chance to repeal the Hunting Act.

The Daily Telegraph stated that ‘MPs will now be given the opportunity later this year to vote on a parliamentary motion on holding a free vote on the ban. The free vote will only take place if a majority of MPs back the motion.’

Robbie Marsland, UK Director of IFAW, said: “The Hunting Act banned the cruel and unnecessary ‘sport’ of chasing and killing foxes, deer, hare and mink with dogs. MPs must now protect the Hunting Act to ensure there is no return to cruelty in our countryside.”

IFAW cannot understand why a new Government would prioritise repealing the Hunting Act. This move is completely out of step with public opinion. It is essential that MPs represent the view of the compassionate majority, 75%* of whom want the ban on hunting to stay.

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For more information please contact Tania McCrea-Steele at IFAW on 020 7587 6709, mobile 07801 613520 or email tmccrea@ifaw.org

* www.ipsos-mori.com

About the International Fund for Animal Welfare – As one of the world’s leading animal welfare organisations, IFAW has representation in 16 countries and carries out its animal welfare work in more than 40. IFAW works from its global headquarters in the United States and focuses its campaigns on improving the welfare of wild and domestic animals by reducing the commercial exploitation of animals, protecting wildlife habitats and assisting animals in distress. IFAW works both on the ground and in the halls of government to safeguard wild and domestic animals and seeks to motivate the public to prevent cruelty to animals and to promote animal welfare and conservation policies that advance the well-being of both animals and people. Visit www.ifaw.org