Orders of the Day — Hunting Bill

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 6:49 pm on 15 September 2004.

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Photo of Ms Jean Corston Ms Jean Corston Chair, Human Rights (Joint Committee), Chair, Parliamentary Labour Party, Chair, Human Rights (Joint Committee) 6:49, 15 September 2004

There is nothing in this Bill that will turn anyone into a criminal. People will become criminals if they decide to disobey the law.

What would be a reasonable commencement date? What would be a reasonable period for people with contracts related to hunting to make alternative arrangements? The hunting season has started, and it is evident that people have made financial and employment commitments to cover this season. I would suggest that it would be reasonable to allow this season to proceed and to allow one further hunting season. That would enable people—if they wish, and if they are sensible—to consider alternatives such as drag hunting. It would also enable the people employed in hunting, whatever their numbers, to look for other work, and enable those who provide goods and services to find other markets, as we are urging them to do.