Hunting with dogs is to be allowed to resume across Sussex from December 17, the Government announced today.

Rural Affairs Minister Alun Michael said the pursuit - which has been banned since the start of the foot and mouth outbreak - would now be permitted in counties declared free of the disease.

However, it will have to operate under strict rules - including the land being used for the hunt having been free of livestock for 28 days.

Mr Michael said the decision had been based on animal health grounds and the need to prevent further outbreaks of FMD.

He said the continued debate over whether hunting with dogs should be banned had played no part in the Government's deliberations.

MPs voted overwhelmingly in favour of a ban in the last Parliament but the move was blocked in the House of Lords.

The Government promised another free vote on the issue in the Queen's Speech earlier this year.

Hunting with dogs remains banned in large parts of the country classed as "high risk" or "at risk" of FMD.

The hunting of deer remains banned throughout the country. Falconry with hawks will be allowed to resume under strict permit.