Written question asked by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 27 October 1997, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 30 October 1997. It was answered by Lord Rooker (Labour) on Thursday, 30 October 1997 on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.

Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food

Question: To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, if he will assess the extra costs which will fall on farmers from the closure of hunt kennels.

Answer: Mr. Baker: To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will assess the extra costs which will fall on farmers from the closure of hunt kennels; and if he will make a statement. [13209] Mr. Rooker: MAFF figures are not available. The private Member's Bill of my hon. Friend the Member for Worcester (Mr. Foster) is due to receive its Second Reading on 28 November. The Government's stance is neither to support nor to oppose a ban on hunting but to allow a free vote. The Bill will provide Parliament with an opportunity to study the pros and cons of any ban on hunting, including the ramifications on the service offered by hunt kennels to the farming community.

Secondary information