In the last couple of days, many people have contacted me asking for my opinion on fox hunting and whether I support the current ban or its repeal.

In the last couple of days, many people have contacted me asking for my opinion on fox hunting and whether I support the current ban or its repeal.

I would like to enlist the help of the Journal to enable me to make my position, and the arguments that support it, clear to its readers.

I strongly supported the hunting ban. I strongly oppose its repeal.

In my considered view, hunting with dogs for sport is abhorrent. There are those who would disagree with my definition of hunting or sport; there are others who would disagree with my viewpoint completely. I believe they are wrong, but I respect their right to hold these opinions.

There are others who suggest that the Act is difficult to enforce and should, therefore, be repealed.

I disagree. There are many worthwhile laws which are difficult to enforce, which should not be repealed.

Those who opposed the ban on fox hunting insisted that the issue was not worthy of parliamentary time.

If they believed this in 2004, I fail to understand why they do not believe it now.

However, the main reason I oppose the repeal of the ban on fox hunting is because the way the world views us and the way we view ourselves, are important.

We spend millions of pounds promoting Britain as a modern, civilized and compassionate country. We want those at home to take pride in their country. We want those abroad to consider our country worthy of investment, cooperation and visits.

This is one of the reasons why we are prepared to spend millions of pounds on the 2012 Olympics; why we take a lead on issues ranging from global warming to international debt; and why we put so much time, effort and resources into international affairs.

The dedication of parliamentary time to the re-introduction of fox hunting would attract vast media attention at home and abroad.

The negative message it would send would be highly costly and extremely damaging. All those with Britain and her interests close to their hearts should recognise this and oppose repeal of the ban on fox hunting.

Gareth Manson,

East Devon Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for the Labour Party.