Fox hunters want rights for themselves like groups such as Roma and LGBTQ+ under equality laws.

In 2005, the practice of fox hunting with hounds was officially banned in the UK, causing quite a stir among those who enjoyed this traditional pastime. One particular group, called Hunting Kind, is now seeking protection under equality laws to ensure that they are not discriminated against for their pro-hunting beliefs. They claim that the UK Equality Act of 2010, which is meant to protect minority groups such as the Roma community and LGBTQ+ peoples, could also extend to fox hunters.

The issue of fox hunting has been a contentious one for many years, with the Hunting Act being put into effect on February 18, 2005, effectively making it illegal to hunt foxes with hounds. However, Hunting Kind firmly believes that if they were to be granted protection under the Equality Act, it would not only safeguard their right to hold pro-hunting views, but also protect their fundraising events and prevent their bank accounts from being closed.

Hunting Kind's legal advisor has suggested that fox hunters could potentially be recognized as an "ethnic group" under the Equality Act, given their shared history, customs, and ancestors. This has sparked criticism from animal rights activists, who have long been vocal opponents of fox hunting. In fact, Ed Swales, the chair of Hunting Kind, even stated in a video on their website that Prime Minister Keir Starmer would understand their legal challenge against the ban on trail hunting, as it was promised in the Labour Manifesto.

Mr. Swales went on to explain that fox hunting is not a cruel activity, as some may believe. He, along with his fellow hunters, are actually very sensitive to animal welfare and do not take pleasure in causing harm to any creature. He believes that those who oppose fox hunting are simply uneducated and fail to see the reality of wildlife management in rural areas.

Despite the fact that the Hunting Act was largely a result of pressure from animal rights activists, fox hunting has a rich history in the UK, dating back to the 1500s and becoming more refined in the 1700s. The oldest fox hunt in the country, the Bilsdale Hunt in Yorkshire, has been in operation since 1668. It is clear that for many, fox hunting with hounds is a deeply ingrained tradition that they feel should be protected and preserved.

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