Boxing Day hunts are taking place across the country today as tensions between the Government and rural communities remain high following the announcement of plans to outlaw trail hunting.
The Countryside Alliance has cautioned that Sir Keir Starmer faces a substantial challenge in restoring faith with those living in Britain’s countryside.
Ministers unveiled their animal welfare strategy shortly before Christmas, which includes proposals to prohibit trail hunting amid concerns the practice serves as a cover for illegal foxhunting.
Trail hunting, where hound packs pursue a pre-laid scent, was established following the 2004 Hunting Act’s prohibition on targeting foxes.
Sir Keir Starmer has been warned he faces a substantial challenge in restoring faith with rural Britain
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Tens of thousands are expected to take part in hunts across the country on Friday.
The pressure group claims the Government has “alienated rural people”, pointing to polling data that paints a stark picture of public perception.
Research conducted by ORB International found that 65 per cent of voters believe Labour unfairly overlooks rural communities.
The survey, which questioned 2,083 British adults online between December 12 and 14, revealed that just 36 per cent agreed or strongly agreed that the Government cares about countryside residents.
Tens of thousands are expected to take part in hunts across the country on Friday
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Furthermore, 76 per cent of respondents said they felt ministers prioritise urban concerns over rural matters.
The Countryside Alliance maintains that hunts generate over £100million annually for the rural economy.
Tim Bonner, the Countryside Alliance’s chief executive, accused the Government of misplaced priorities.
“When Keir Starmer said that he ‘wanted a new relationship with the countryside’ we all assumed he meant a better one, but in 18 months his government has alienated rural people and created the clear impression that it does not care about the countryside,” he said.
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ORB International research found that 65 per cent of voters believe Labour unfairly overlooks rural communities
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GETTYMr Bonner criticised what he described as “warped priorities” that have placed levies on family farms, increased rates for rural businesses and pursued a trail hunting ban ahead of beneficial policies.
He acknowledged partial amendments to family farm taxation as “a step in the right direction” but insisted ministers must learn to collaborate with rural communities rather than legislate against them.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) defended the Government’s approach.
A Defra spokesman said: “This government is committed to banning trail hunting, which is too often used as a cover for illegal fox hunting, and has strong public support across the country.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs defended the Government’s approach
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PA“This builds on previous animal welfare reforms delivered by this Government, including giving police greater powers to prevent dog attacks on livestock, protecting farmers and animals alike.
“The Batters Review highlighted the need for greater collaboration between industry, farmers and government – and that is exactly what we will do.
“We have increased the individual inheritance tax threshold from £1million to £2.5million, meaning couples with estates of up to £5million will pay no inheritance tax.”
Boxing Day hunts in Britain began in the 17th century as traditional fox hunts held the day after Christmas, where landowners and local communities gathered to celebrate the festive season.