NOVEMBER marks the start of the new hunting season for the 289 registered packs of hounds across Britain which provide an important service for farmers and landowners, by lawfully managing the population of foxes, hare and deer.
The hunting act means that many of the packs now follow a trail, but most also continue to carry out wildlife management under the exemptions put into the hunting act by MPs.
We had hoped that the new season would have been marked by small amendments to the hunting act that were to come before parliament in July.
These would have varied the number of hounds allowed to be used by hunts. However, despite evidence that being able to use more dogs is more effective and potentially more humane, and that the amendments had the support of a majority of MPs, the vote was called off.
So the hunting community starts the new season in good spirits determined to continue hunting, under the law, and fighting for repeal.
Tim Bonner, chief executive, Countryside Alliance
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