Some people feel strongly that foxhunting with horses and hounds is all right, at least for others if they do not themselves take part.

Some people feel strongly that, whether or not foxes will go on being killed by other methods, hunters should not enjoy the sport and it should be banned.

There is, in the middle, a third way group who would keep traditional hunting under regulation.

I am grateful to all those who have contacted me to offer their views or to ask for mine. My opinion is that most arguments are exaggerated - on both sides. That is why I did not vote either way at second reading.

My main animal interest in this country is for the improved welfare of food and farm animals. If only half the effort being put into this abortive bill were directed to positive efforts to give pigs, lambs, cattle and chickens better lives and slaughter, there would be a real gain, I believe.

-Peter Bottomley MP, House of Commons