Hunting: an outdated tradition

From the archive, first published Thursday 20th Nov 2003.

In a recent newspaper article Ms Kirkbride, the Conservative MP for Bromsgrove, was quoted making an emotional and misplaced appeal in favour of hunting.

She stated that a ban would be unfair to rural communities and an affront to their liberties.

This appeal was based upon the often-used argument that hunting is a rural tradition not understood by urban dwellers. That hunting defines Englishness and, having continued throughout the ages, it has become sacrosanct to a point where it is almost believed to be protected by the force of law.

Many traditions were and remain sturdy and proud. Others, both bad and hostile to those seeking to enlighten their society, were eventually banished.

The tradition of burning witches was once as brutal as it was irrational. Cock fighting, dog fighting and other blood sports were outlawed on the grounds of their cruelty. Public hanging, once a traditional mass spectacle, became to be regarded as obscene.

What right has a sport, which enthusiasts claim as their tradition, to remain when it is soaked in the blood of amusement?

It's a tradition resting upon the idea that animals can be treated as little more than a resource, and used for human interest.

Edward Davies

Stourbridge

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