Boxing Day hunts are on the verge of extinction as the process to outlaw trail hunting is set to commence next year. Trail hunting involves laying a scent trail for hounds to follow instead of pursuing real animals. It was introduced as a substitute for fox hunting, which was prohibited by the Labour Party in 2004.
Concerns have been raised by campaigners about foxes being brutally attacked by dogs during hunts. The national police authority responsible for tackling illegal hunting, Devon and Cornwall’s assistant Chief Constable, Matt Longman, has alleged that trail hunting is often used as a cover for illegal fox hunting. The Government is poised to implement a ban, anticipated within this parliamentary term, as part of its forthcoming animal welfare strategy to be released on Monday.
Animal Welfare Minister Baroness Hayman affirmed the government’s commitment to banning trail hunting, citing evidence that it is being misused for hunting wild animals. Ministers are planning to seek public input through a consultation in the new year to facilitate a full ban. Additionally, shooting hares in England is likely to be restricted for a significant portion of the year as part of the regulatory changes.
Thomas Schultz-Jagow, RSPCA Director of Advocacy and Prevention, applauded the measures taken to halt what he described as a “cruel bloodsport.” He emphasized the suffering endured by animals and communities due to the practice of trail hunting being exploited for illegal hunting purposes since the inception of the Hunting Act in 2004.
Figures from the League Against Cruel Sports revealed a high number of instances of illegal hunting during the hunting season, with a rise in reported fox pursuits and killings. Emma Slawinski, the organization’s chief executive, declared the imminent demise of fox hunting and urged the government to strengthen the law to prosecute offenders more effectively.
In contrast, the Countryside Alliance criticized the proposed law changes, labeling them unjustified and accusing the Labour Party of an “obsession” with hunting. Tim Bonner, the organization’s chief executive, defended trail hunting as a legal activity supporting rural communities and jobs. He urged the government to focus on uplifting rural communities rather than pursuing divisive policies.
Overall, the ongoing debate surrounding trail hunting and potential bans continues to polarize opinions within the UK, with stakeholders advocating for animal welfare and traditional hunting practices at odds with each other.