A committee of MPs has ended its detailed consideration of the hunting bill.

Rural affairs minister Alun Michael said: "At its introduction the bill was described as 'tough but fair'. That remains true although it is even more robust as a result of amendments in committee."

Forum Response: Countryside Alliance

Richard Burge, chief executive of the Countryside Alliance, said: "Following the conclusion of the committee stage, the minister responsible, Alun Michael, has suggested the bill has been 'strengthened' and 'clarified' in committee.

"The Countryside Alliance welcomes political decisions based on principle and evidence. It has, however, become ever clearer that the minister has thrown both principle and evidence aside in favour of a politically expedient approach at the expense of animal welfare.

"He has connived with other opponents of hunting to make this bill a total ban in all but name.

"Throughout the committee stage he has failed to produce any evidence which could possibly support what he has done. Mr Michael cannot expect any fair-minded person to accept this."

Forum Response: RSPCA

A spokesman for the RSPCA told ePolitix.com: "There have been significant improvements to the bill in the committee stage. For example the amendments banning hare hunts and terrier work are to be welcomed.

"However, there are some loopholes that need to be closed in the report stage such as cubbing."

Forum Response: British Pest Control Association

A spokeswoman for the BPCA told ePolitix.com: "As previously stated by the British Pest Control Association, there are currently no products approved to poison or gas foxes. In our belief no approvals for new or existing products are being sought.

"The pest control industry recognizes its responsibility to the environment including wildlife and to the safety of people. To this end non-chemical alternatives in every aspect of pest control are constantly under review. Working terriers are essential tools for many pest controllers. They are used to drive foxes out of the ground, and also for controlling rats in certain situations.

"Muzzled terriers can frequently be used. The Association supports the view that an outright ban on using dogs for hunting wild mammals may further restrict the options available to professional pest technicians in controlling public health and nuisance pests."