MFHA - (Masters of Foxhounds Association)

Online Stud Book

puckeridge

The online studbook is available to members of the MFHA and others, from all countries, who are involved in the breeding of stud book foxhounds. Apply to the MFHA for access with this form.

Hunt Staff Benefit Society

red coat

The Hunt Staff Benefit Society (HSBS) provides personal pension schemes specifically for hunt staff. Find out more about how to join the HSBS, or how to support the HSBS through various Fund Raising intiatives.

Hunting Associations explain concerns of licensing

| Print | E-mail

UK's Hunting Associations have told the Middle Way Development Committee that they are keen to seek a resolution to the hunting debate. However, any solution must be "affordable, enforceable and truly independent".

In their evidence to the Middle Way Group unofficial select committee today the 9 Hunting Associations have set out their principal concerns and their commitment to a formal system of independent supervision.

Alastair Jackson, speaking on behalf of the Hunting Associations, explained that they would welcome developing the existing system of supervision which is both workable and has sound animal welfare standards in mind. Mr Jackson added that any system must avoid unnecessary bureaucracy and oppressive costs.

“What is needed is an authority which gives the public confidence in what we do, which focuses on animal welfare issues and which is not vulnerable to political interference. We recognise that we have a duty to take account of concerns raised by the Burns Inquiry and by the public. We have addressed these issues. The original Middle Way Group proposals could have led to impractical regulations. These would have caused unnecessary bureaucracy and presented enormous difficulties not only to those involved in hunting, but sections of the public too.

Following the Middle Way Group's review we will look at their proposals constructively and with great interest. However, these proposals will need to address all of these concerns if they are to result in an option that strikes the right balance between establishing decent animal welfare standards without infringing the liberties and livelihoods of the public.”

For further information call Alastair Jackson on 01285 831470 or 07774 262540.

Editors Notes:

  1. A copy of the Hunting Associations evidence to the Middle Way Group is available on request.
  2. The Hunting Associations consist of:
    • The Masters of Foxhounds Association
    • The Masters of Minkhounds Association
    • The Masters of Deerhounds Association
    • Association of Masters of Harriers and Beagles
    • Central Committee of Fell Packs
    • Federation of Welsh Packs
    • Association of Lurcher Clubs
    • National Coursing Club
    • Whippet, Saluki and Deerhound Coursing Association