I think the focus of this debate needs shifting to the threat of attack on our personal freedoms by the state.

Let me get this straight - I am opposed to hunting with dogs on the grounds of cruelty, but this is only my personal opinion as a leftie Thatcher-hating townie folkie ; )

BUT, I oppose this ban because it directly infringes on the rights of people who take part in an ancient and social event that has real importance to the rural community.

How many people have (rightly) thrown their hands up in horror at the injustice of a PELs system that criminalises landlords and musicians for simply expressing their culture, for free, and for the simple pleasure of it.

To stop hunting, you have to change social and cultural attitudes, not use ill-advised legislation designed to play to the instincts of the party faithful so at least you have something to trumpet about at your national conference.