Reform Party and the Conservative Party face criticism for their involvement in trail hunts on Boxing Day. Nigel Farage and Tory MP Kevin Hollinrake were seen at a hunt, despite concerns about the treatment of foxes by dogs during such events. Trail hunting, where a scent trail is used instead of real animals, was introduced as a substitute for fox hunting, which was outlawed by the Labour Party in 2004.
Labour has pledged to ban the practice as part of its Animal Welfare Strategy, aiming to enhance animal welfare standards for pets and wildlife. Critics argue that trail hunting is a camouflage for hunting wild animals, drawing condemnation from animal welfare advocates.
Labour MP Luke Charters MP accused Reform and the Tories of neglecting the interests of working people by supporting hunts instead of focusing on essential issues. Meanwhile, hunt supporters have gathered to oppose the proposed ban on trail hunting, with Emma Slawinksi from the League Against Cruel Sports asserting that trail hunting has been a cover for illegal hunting practices.
The controversy surrounding trail hunts continues, with the Government’s impending ban stirring debates on animal welfare and hunting practices.
