Further details of the campaign to save hunting with dogs are to be unveiled today.

The Countryside Alliance has already announced plans for a mass rally to Westminster, which half a million supporters are expected to attend.

"We had to cancel last year's march because of the foot and mouth outbreak but we had pledges of support from around 500,000 people, so we expect the same this time," a spokesman said.

The chief executive of the Alliance, Richard Burge, accused the government of failing to heed the warnings of the rural community given in an open letter to government.

"There is a clear attempt to use hunting as a sacrificial lamb on the alter of political convenience. Quite simply, we will not allow anyone to get away with it," he said.

The announcement comes as the government begins its six-month consultation, with another hunting bill to be launched soon after parliament returns after the Easter recess.