As Tanatside Hunt took to the streets of Welshpool on Boxing Day for the annual parade there is no imminent prospect of a parliamentary vote on repealing the hunting ban.
This news came from Shropshire MP and Environment Secretary Owen Paterson as he
appeared to rule out bringing the issue before the Commons next year and was backed by local MP Glyn Davies.
Mr Paterson, a supporter of country sports, including hunting, said: “There’s only a point having a vote if you’re going to win.
“At the moment, it would not be my proposal to bring forward a vote we were going to lose. There needs to be more work done on Members of Parliament.
“It is our clear intention to have a free vote but we need to choose an appropriate moment.”
The comments emerged as an estimated 300 Boxing Day hunts gathered up and down the country for the busiest day of the season – despite the ban on hunting with dogs that was passed under Labour in 2005.
Many Tories would support a repeal of the law, but most Labour and Liberal Democrats MPs are still in favour of the ban.
Glyn Davies was at the Welshpool hunt. "No more than 40 horses this year because it was too wet to ride out on farmland. But around 1000 supporters lining the street," he said.
"The numbers have been much higher since the ban on hunting with dogs was enacted. Several of the attendees decided to share their opinions with me on numerous issues.
"Quite a few wanted to know when the Government is going to deliver the promised 'free vote' of MPs on repeal of the hunting ban.
"Discussion had been stimulated by reported comments from Owen Paterson that there would be no vote in 2013.
"Though I was very opposed to the ban, and would vote to overturn it, I'm not at all sure that I want a vote. Case of being careful what you wish for. I do think there will be a majority to repeal in this Parliament - so cannot see the point of a vote.
"It would only give more credibility to the ban. As long as its enforced with common sense, most hunts and packs can just about live with it."