Released to press on 09 May 2017
Animal protection charity OneKind is warning about the significance of the Prime Minister’s statement on fox hunting for Scotland.
OneKind is appalled that the Prime Minister has today (Tuesday 9 May) declared her personal support for foxhunting, while renewing a pledge to hold a free vote on overturning the current ban [1].
In 2000, the Government-commissioned Burns Report stated that fox hunting “seriously compromises” the welfare of the hunted animal, and the activity was banned under the Hunting Act in 2004.
The Prime Minister’s statement comes on the back of revelations about manoeuvrings by the hunts [2] to get a commitment to repealing the Hunting Act into the Conservative Party manifesto. According to a leaked email message from Lord Mancroft to hunt masters, it is thought that a large Conservative majority will allow safe passage of a repeal or significant changes to weaken the Act.
OneKind Director Harry Huyton said:
“We are appalled at this statement from the Prime Minister. The bans were introduced in Holyrood and then Westminster following a lengthy and comprehensive process. Nothing has changed since then. Fox hunting remains cruel, outdated and should have no place in any part of 21st century Britain.”
“This comes at a time when the Scottish Government is reviewing the legislation that applies north of the Border, with a view to strengthening it. This must not be undermined by confusion about the future of hunting in England.”
“It’s also important to remember that Scottish MPs will have a vote at Westminster on any proposal to weaken or repeal the Hunting Act. OneKind are therefore seeking a commitment from all candidates that they will oppose such a move. Cruelty is cruelty, no matter where it takes place in the UK.”
[1] http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/politics/theresa-confirms-wants-bring-back-10387487
[2] http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/general-election-2017-latest-fox-hunting-theresa-may-tory-landslide-repeal-ban-a7725346.html
Notes to editor:
1. OneKind is a UK-wide animal protection charity based in Scotland working to end animal suffering through campaigns, research and education.
For further information or photographs please contact Sarah Moyes on 0131 661 9734sarah.moyes@onekind.org
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