The future of hunting starts now

This article was first published in Horse & Hound on 1 May 2025.

Today (1 May) heralds the start of a new season and with that comes all the excitement and anticipation of what lies ahead, especially for those taking on new roles who bring with them fresh ideas and enthusiasm. Change can be daunting too, both for those coming out of hunt service and taking on different challenges as well as for those stepping up to take on new responsibilities.

This season comes with additional and significant challenges for us all though as it could be the final one before new legislation is introduced to fulfil Labour’s manifesto pledge to “ban trail hunting.” In early April, Defra Minister Daniel Zeichner stated during an adjournment debate in the House of Commons that the government would be launching a consultation on the issue “later this year.” This marked the first official indication of a timeline for potential new hunting laws, which could now be expected in 2026.

Ministers know that hunting isn’t a priority for the majority of voters but a manifesto commitment means we are destined to face yet another polarising debate over hunting with hounds. The debate this time though, is not about animal welfare, it’s about whether or not the Hunting Act 2004 is working. 

Critics claim the law is unenforceable and that individuals are flouting it without consequence. However, the government’s own data tells a different story. Ministry of Justice statistics show that since 2010, there have been hundreds of prosecutions under the Hunting Act but notably, very few of these convictions involve registered hunts, which frustrates the anti-hunting brigade. Their real grievance lies in the fact hunts continue to exist and they will be seeking new legislation to eradicate them.

So, what could a ban on trail hunting actually mean? Media briefing suggests there is an intention to add recklessness to the offence of hunting with dogs, to ban the use of animal-based scents and to increase fines. None of this is either justified or necessary, but Ministers have also been clear that they have “no issue with drag hunting”. If that is the extent of any legislation then it would add to the risk of spurious allegations for those hunting an artificial scent or exempt hunting, but not make those activities impossible.

There is still all to play for and we must all – not just masters, hunt staff and hunt officials – take responsibility in securing hunting’s future. The Alliance has been preparing for this moment for years and we know that once the issue returns to the political spotlight, scrutiny of our activities will intensify further.

Those at the sharp end must “show that trail hunting and exempt hunting are conducted legally, following strict protocols” in line with the strategy of their governing body, the British Hound Sports Association, to ensure that the police, politicians and the public have confidence hunts are operating lawfully and are not perceived to be above the law.

Politically, as this progresses you may be asked to support our lobbying efforts. By writing letters, signing e-lobbies or visiting your MP’s surgery, you can make a real difference. We encourage you to start monitoring local council agendas too and let the Alliance know if trail hunting is being discussed. Our opponents want to prevent hunts accessing public land and stop Boxing Day meets taking place in public places and we can activate successful local lobbying efforts to protect that right if we know it’s up for debate.

How we behave on and off the hunting field and while accessing roads and other public spaces shapes public perception - and in today’s media age, perception is everything. We will, perhaps unfairly, be judged by the actions of the few who fall short of expected high standards.

The start of this new season is a chance for the hunting community to unite, reset and refocus. A moment to remind ourselves why we do this and what is at stake if we don’t protect it. Please don’t let the side – or our hounds - down.