Should trail hunting be banned in England and Wales?

The government plans to ban trail hunting in England and Wales as part of a new animal welfare strategy, fulfilling a manifesto pledge.

Trail hunting, which involves hounds following a scent trail rather than a live animal, has remained legal since the 2004 Hunting Act banned hunting wild mammals with dogs.

Ministers argue it is often used as a smokescreen for illegal hunts.

Opponents, including countryside and hunting groups, claim the move is unnecessary and politically motivated, warning it could damage rural traditions and economies.

A public consultation on the ban will take place in the new year.

Trail hunting is already banned in Scotland but remains legal in Northern Ireland.