Trail hunting ban seen as blow to rural life

Rural groups have expressed dismay at the government’s plans to ban trail hunting in England, calling it an attack on the rural way of life.

The government confirmed its intention to introduce a ban as part of its Animal Welfare Strategy on 22 December, having previously pledged to do so in its manifesto.

Defra cited concerns it was being used as a smokescreen for hunting.

See also: Plans for stricter shotgun ownership conditions opposed

Tim Bonner, chief executive of the Countryside Alliance, said: “Trail hunting is a legal activity which supports hundreds of jobs and is central to many rural communities.

“Especially after its attack on family farms, the government should be focusing on addressing issues that actually help rural communities thrive, rather than pursuing divisive policies that hinder them.”

Defra farming minister Dame Angela Eagle confirmed in a written response to questions on 29 October, that a consultation seeking views on how to deliver a ban would be held early in 2026.

She said: “The nature of trail hunting makes it very difficult to do safely.

“The use of large packs of hounds reduces the control huntsmen have, putting wild mammals, household pets and even members of the public at risk.

“Trail hunting also provides a convenient cover for those seeking to participate in illegal hunting activities by obscuring their intention and enabling the inevitable chasing of animals to be labelled as ‘accidental’.”

Opposition parties

Kevin Hollinrake, Conservative Party chairman and MP for Thirsk and Malton, said the government was punishing the law-abiding majority who support legal trail hunting, including the thousands who turn out every Boxing Day.

Reform leader Nigel Farage referred to Labour as “authoritarian control freaks” in response to its plans to ban trail hunting.

He jested that “you might as well ban walking dogs in the countryside as they chase rabbits, hares, deer and foxes”.

The government has also announced plans to ban snare traps and introduce a close season for shooting hares, as part of its Animal Welfare Strategy.