Archive Article: 2002/03/22
Thank the Lords for hunting decision
Thank goodness for a little common sense in the Palace of Westminster. The House of Lords decision to vote by 366 to 59 in support of regulated hunting proves that countryside interests are not completely ignored.
The peers stance in favour of freedom will give country people renewed confidence in our democratic processes. Confidence is at a low ebb thanks to the governments arrogant attitude towards the countryside and farming in particular and the High Courts rejection of moves to force a public inquiry into foot-and-mouth.
The House of Lords has provided the government with vital room for manoeuvre on the vexed topic of hunting with hounds. Lets hope it uses the decision as a foundation for a new consensus that permits licensed hunting in England and Wales.
If government misses this opportunity, it should expect confrontation with the countryside the like of which has never been seen before.