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HUNTING COMMUNITY EXPECTED TO BE "LAW-ABIDING" SAYS MINISTER

The Hunting Act has come into effect as of today.

It is now illegal to hunt a wild mammal with a dog, unless the activity is specifically exempted. Hare coursing has also been banned.

The Act comes into force in England and Wales after a number of legal challenges brought by the Countryside Alliance.

Rural Affairs Minister Alun Michael said: "If people set out to hunt a wild mammal with dogs, whether it be a fox, a mink, a hare or a deer, they will be breaking the law.

"The hunting community have always said they are law-abiding members of the community and I expect them to keep to their word.

"Those who want to live within the law will have no difficulty doing so. I am particularly pleased that hunts are now talking about an intention to hunt legally."