I have pledged to support the ‘Keep the Ban’ campaign to defend the hunting ban.

Ten years ago the Labour Party ended the cruel practice of hunting with dogs. Labour believes that the unnecessary and prolonged suffering of defenceless animals has no place in civilised society. The hunting ban shows how far animal welfare has progressed.

Despite the hunting ban’s success and the support of the British public, the Hunting Act 2004 is under threat from the Conservatives who have promised to hold a free vote on repealing the Act. David Cameron has repeatedly stated his opposition to the Hunting Act.

Only Labour can protect the Hunting Act because Labour is the only major political party committed to defending it.

If re-elected in May, I will continue to fight to keep the hunting ban and campaign for improved animal welfare.

You can read more about Labour’s commitment to animal welfare here