As MPs prepare to ban foxhunting next week, parliament is to be placed on a high security alert because of expected protests from pro-hunt supporters.

Demonstrators have already invaded the chamber and clashed with police in Parliament Square.

But their protests and last-ditch efforts in the Lords to prevent a ban are highly unlikely to prevent the Commons from finally getting its way.

The speaker, Michael Martin, is expected to invoke the Parliament Act next Thursday, forcing through the will of MPs.