South Herefordshire Hunt

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South Herefordshire Hunt

Thank you for contacting me about the recent allegations against the South Herefordshire Hunt.

I agree with you that baiting hounds with fox cubs would be an appalling act of cruelty and a serious criminal offence under the Animal Welfare Act. I am pleased that we have robust animal welfare legislation in the UK, with penalties available to the courts of an unlimited fine and six months imprisonment.

For the moment, however, this is entirely a matter for the police and the criminal justice system. It would be wrong of me to prejudice their investigations by expressing a view on the allegations before they have been properly investigated.

Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.

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