Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Caroline Lucas and Elizabeth Truss

Thursday 12th March 2015 Commons Chamber

[Elizabeth Truss]

I completely agree that hunting is important for rural communities. It is traditional and part of the fabric of our countryside.

[Caroline Lucas (Brighton, Pavilion) (Green)]

Why will the Secretary of State not recognise the huge opposition to the idea of repealing the Hunting Act? Instead of proposing yet more cruelty to animals, why will she not look at extending the Act to grouse shooting and hare coursing, which also are cruel and hugely opposed in this country?

[Elizabeth Truss]

Our approach is that we will introduce a Government Bill in Government time to repeal the Hunting Act on a free vote.