Campaigners are urging the British Government to take action on strengthening fox hunting laws, as they deliver a 104,000-signature petition to 10 Downing Street on the twentieth anniversary of the Hunting Act coming into effect. The League Against Cruel Sports, supported by numerous celebrities and over 30 organizations in the Time for Change Coalition Against Hunting, is calling for stricter legislation to prevent illegal hunting with hounds.
The charity has released alarming figures that highlight the ongoing issue of hunts chasing foxes and causing chaos in rural communities. Since last summer, there have been 298 reported incidents of foxes being pursued by hunts, 350 reports of suspected illegal hunting, and 885 cases of hunt-related havoc.
Chris Luffingham, acting chief executive at the League Against Cruel Sports, emphasized the need for stronger measures to combat illegal hunting activities. He stated, “Hunts claim to be following trails, but our data clearly shows that this is a cover-up for the brutal pursuit and killing of foxes. We urge the government to close the loopholes in the Hunting Act, ban trail hunting, and introduce custodial sentences as a deterrent.”
Luffingham added, “It’s time for the government to heed the voices of over 100,000 petition signatories and set a timetable for putting an end to this cruel blood sport once and for all.”
The reported incidents of illegal hunting include not only foxes being chased by hounds but also other behaviors by hunts that indicate the hunting of wild animals rather than following pre-laid trails. These activities include the use of terriers to flush out foxes that have sought refuge underground and instances of hunt havoc such as hounds causing road accidents, trespassing on private properties, livestock attacks, and damage to wildlife habitats.
The figures compiled by the League Against Cruel Sports’ intelligence team, which comprises former police officers and analysts, provide valuable insights into the ongoing hunting practices in the countryside. Luffingham acknowledged that these figures represent only a fraction of the actual incidents, with many undocumented cases occurring in remote areas.
Notable celebrities who have voiced their support for the League’s campaign include actors Maxine Peake, Evanna Lynch, Mike Beckingham, and Wendy Morgan, as well as wildlife TV presenters Chris Packham, Hannah Stitfall, and Iolo Williams. The campaign has also garnered support from GP and TV personality Dr. Amir Khan, actor Dan Richardson, and TV presenters Kirsty Gallagher and Kate Lawler.
In conclusion, the call for stronger fox hunting laws is gaining momentum, with campaigners advocating for immediate action to protect wildlife and prevent cruel hunting practices. It is crucial for the government to listen to these concerns and prioritize the welfare of animals in rural areas.
