Change of power could end hunt ban
HUNT supporters are hoping a change of Government could sound the horn for a repeal of the hunting ban.
The Cottesmore Hunt's Boxing Day and New Year's Day meets in Oakham and Uppingham attracted thousands of people, a sign say hunt leaders of Rutlanders' over-whelming support for it.
Hunt secretary Clare Bell said: "We want the law repealed. We have a huge amount of support and it's something the people of the countryside are passionate about."
Government legislation in 2004 banned foxhunting with dogs, although hounds can still follow a scent.
Mrs Bell said there had been more people had become involved with the hunt since the ban was imposed.
She said: "We need a change of Government. There's no way the current Government is going to change the ban.
"You can't expect young people to train to hunt when what they would be doing is illegal. For the future of hunting the repeal is essential."
The Cottesmore Hunt is promising to step up its campaign when the Prime Minister announces the next general election, with protesters across the country – operating under the banner Vote-OK – lobbying for a Conservative government.
Cottesmore huntsman Neil Coleman said: "Hunting is a tradition people have to see and I'm really confident the ban will be overturned."
Rutland's Tory MP Alan Duncan turned out to show his support for the Cottesmore Hunt on Boxing Day.
The Conservatives are refusing to publicly commit to scrapping the ban if they are elected but say they would hold a free vote to allow MPs to have their say again.
A spokesman said he would expect the majority of Tory MPs to be in favour of overturning the ban.
He added: "We're committed to giving a free vote in the House of Commons to determine the hunting ban."
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Weather for Stamford
Friday 25 May 2012
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