The government hopes a six month consultation and compromise will finally lay the fox hunting issue to rest.

Rural affairs minister Alun Michael has admitted he faces a tough task in bridging the emotive gulf between the "pros" and "antis" on both sides of the debate.

"The likelihood of getting complete agreement is a wish too far but to get the two sides engaged in the process is right and sensible," he said.

"It would be extremely helpful if everybody were to engage in this process."

Taking the unusual step of holding a lobby briefing for journalists following a Commons statement, Michael said the aim of his decision was to create legislation that would "stand the test of time".

"Both sides recognise there are issues to be dealt with. I am certain that some common ground can be found. The more common ground the better"

The last hunting bill, brought into the Commons by Michael Foster, was designed at the request of an outside organisation.

Bringing that bill, which would have outlawed hunting with dogs, was the simple option but one that the hunting community would have fought so instead he hopes a compromise deal can be found.

The minister fought back against claims that the government had decided to ignore the wishes of Labour's anti-hunt backbenchers.

"The will of the Commons has been heard and is the starting point for the discussion," he said.

To avoid claims that the government was kicking the issue into the long grass, Michael said the six-month consultation period was a way of focusing minds. Putting "everybody on notice" he urged both sides to "use the limited time available".

Michael also confirmed that when the Commons vote on his bill it will not be whipped.

He denied the government was seeking to use the laws on the process of legislation as a blunt instrument to achieve ministers' wishes.

"Parliament Act is not the property of the government it's the property of Parliament," Michael said.