The traditional Boxing Day hunt occurred this morning in the UK, where riders gathered to engage in the contentious activity following recent revelations by the Labour Party about their intentions to outlaw fox hunting entirely.
Various Boxing Day hunts took place in England this morning, as numerous riders were spotted early in the day with their dogs, following a pre-set animal scent trail. Supporters of hunting claim that the activity promotes physical and mental well-being without causing harm to animals. Notably, Nigel Farage, a prominent hunting advocate, was observed observing a hunt at Chiddingstone Castle in Kent.
However, amidst the hunters, protesters voiced concerns that such hunts are used for illegal purposes targeting innocent animals, a sentiment echoed by the Labour Party in their recent animal welfare strategy release.
Fox hunting has been illegal in all four UK nations for the past two decades, following the ban imposed during Tony Blair’s administration. Despite the ban, certain permissions have allowed for “trail hunting” using a pre-laid foxless scent, which critics argue serves as a loophole to bypass the ban and continue hunting practices.
Emma Judd from the League Against Cruel Sports highlighted that hunts seldom lay actual trails and can be detrimental to local wildlife and livestock. She emphasized that even when trails are used, they are often placed in areas where animals are present, leading to unintended killings during hunting activities.
Supporters of hunting justify the sport as a means for socializing and enjoyment, while opponents continue to raise concerns about the impact on animals and the environment. The Labour Party’s proposed plans aim to eliminate all hunting loopholes and ensure stricter enforcement of the existing ban to safeguard animal welfare.