They are very damaging to poultry, game and other wildlife. Hunting is the most certain and least cruel way of keeping the number of foxes down. The alternative of shooting often results in the fox getting gangrene. Poisoning and trapping are in any event illegal. My Lords, we have heard those views expressed before and will no doubt hear them again in the wide-ranging debate on the Bill.
Some people see foxes as vermin and undoubtedly that is the case.
Column 1404 observations on that matter. The noble Lord asks the Government to consider his points. I have made it plain that this matter is for Parliament. That remains the case. From the tone of debate in your Lordships' House this afternoon, it seems that people are pleased that there will be free votes on all the options.