Hunters will be 'called to arms'

The Countryside Alliance plans bigger marches

Hunt supporters are planning the biggest peacetime demonstration London has ever seen in a bid to prevent a ban on hunting with dogs.

The pro-hunt Countryside Alliance has urged supporters to stand by for a call to arms in the face of the government's pledge to give parliamentary time to a bill on the issue.

"As of now a sustained and escalating campaign of action begins," said the pressure group's chief executive, Richard Burge.

"It will be relentless, implacable and prolonged."

A poll on Tuesday suggested public support for anti-hunt groups was stronger, with almost two-thirds of the British electorate believing the government should ban fox-hunting before the next general election.

Short notice

Home Secretary Jack Straw confirmed on Monday the government would bring forward a bill on hunting with dogs.

His announcement coincided with the publication of the Burns Inquiry report into the effects of a ban on hunting which included reports that up to 8,000 jobs depended on the sport and that it was more humane to shoot foxes.

The Countryside Alliance claims 16,000 jobs will be hit by a hunting ban

Mr Burge said the Countryside Alliance campaign would have a local and national focus leading to the biggest peacetime march that London had ever seen.

He said the government's plan for a multi-option Bill had been received with "surprise and consternation" by those who could be hurt by it.

No date for the planned march or other protests has being released by the pressure group, which has rallied thousands to the capital on previous rural marches.

Public support for ban

Mr Burge said supporters would be 'called to arms' at short notice.

Anti-hunt campaigners have the support of the majority, according to polls

"It may require travel and it will certainly require dedication and commitment."

In all, 62% of adults polled for Channel 4's Powerhouse programme on Tuesday said they would welcome a ban, against 29% who said they would oppose it. One thousand people were polled.