Boxing Day hunts are on the verge of being phased out as the government gears up to initiate the prohibition of trail hunting starting next year.
Trail hunting involves setting a scented trail for the hunt to pursue instead of tracking real animals. It was introduced as an alternative to fox hunting, which was outlawed by the Labour party in 2004.
Critics have long cautioned that foxes are still frequently maimed by dogs during hunts. Devon and Cornwall’s Assistant Chief Constable, Matt Longman, has alleged that trail hunting is often used as a cover for illegal fox hunting. The government now plans to enforce a ban, expected to be implemented in this parliamentary term, as part of its forthcoming animal welfare strategy.
Animal Welfare Minister Baroness Hayman affirmed the government’s commitment to banning trail hunting, citing evidence that it is being misused for hunting wild animals. Ministers are set to seek public opinions through a consultation on how to enforce a complete ban in the upcoming year. Additionally, shooting hares in England is slated to be restricted for most of the year as part of these regulatory changes.
Thomas Schultz-Jagow, Director of Advocacy and Prevention at the RSPCA, praised the measures taken to end the “abhorrent and cruel bloodsport.” He highlighted the suffering endured by wildlife, pets, and horses during hunts, along with the disruptive impacts on rural communities.
The League Against Cruel Sports reported an increase in instances of illegal hunting, with 211 foxes reportedly pursued and 19 confirmed or suspected to have been killed during the hunting season.
Emma Slawinski, CEO of the League Against Cruel Sports, emphasized that the days of fox hunting are numbered. She called for stricter laws to prevent illegal hunting activities, urging the government to close loopholes in the Hunting Act that allow hunts to justify killing wild animals with dogs.
In contrast, the Countryside Alliance criticized the proposed changes, arguing that they are unjustified and accusing the Labour party of an “obsession” with hunting. The organization defended trail hunting as a legal and economically beneficial activity that supports rural communities.
Overall, the debate surrounding the ban on trail hunting continues to intensify, with animal welfare advocates pushing for stronger legislation while hunting proponents argue for the preservation of traditional practices.