The traditional Boxing Day hunt occurred this morning in the UK, as riders embarked on trails to engage in the contentious activity shortly after a Labour report unveiled the Government’s intention to outlaw fox hunting entirely.
Across England this morning, Boxing Day hunts unfolded, with numerous riders venturing out in the early daylight alongside their dogs to follow a pre-set animal scent. Participants joined in, citing the event as a pursuit promoting physical and mental well-being without causing harm to animals. Notably, hunting advocate Nigel Farage was observed observing a hunt at Chiddingstone Castle in Kent.
Amidst the hunters, protesters voiced objections, claiming the practice facilitates illicit activities targeting innocent animals, a stance aligned with Labour’s perspective outlined in its recent animal welfare strategy release.
Fox hunting has remained prohibited in all four UK nations for two decades, following the ban implemented by Tony Blair’s administration that aimed to end what was widely considered a cruel practice involving horseback riders utilizing packs of dogs for hunting and killing the animals. Despite the overarching ban, certain permissions persist allowing for “trail hunting” utilizing a scent devoid of foxes.
While the ban prohibits hunting and killing foxes, animal rights organizations argue that trail hunting permissions are exploited to sidestep the 2005 legislation, with Labour characterizing it in their manifesto as a guise for savage killings. Emma Judd from the League Against Cruel Sports highlighted that hunts seldom actually lay a genuine trail, emphasizing the detrimental impact on local wildlife, including livestock. She emphasized that if a trail is laid, it often occurs near areas with wildlife or livestock, resulting in unintended animal deaths.
Hunters defend the activity as a means for socializing and enjoyment.
Today likely marked the final hunt for many riders.
Nigel Farage is a prominent advocate of hunting in the UK.
Hunters have persistently utilized existing permissions to pursue foxes.
Critics and protesters of fox hunting made their presence felt at hunts nationwide.
Labour’s proposed measures seek to close all hunting loopholes.
Cruel hunting practices have been shown to harm the involved hounds.