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UK Hunts Surreptitiously Claim Over £2.4M in Taxpayer Funds Since 2005 Ban

Source: UK Hunts Have Claimed Over £2.4 Million In Taxpayer Money Since Ban (2025-11-29)

A groundbreaking investigation reveals that UK hunting groups have secretly received over £2.4 million in taxpayer money since the 2005 ban on animal hunting with dogs. The report, a collaboration between Protect the Wild and Grantham Against Bloodsports, is based on 20 years of meticulous research, public records, and freedom of information requests. While the ban aimed to end bloodsports, evidence suggests that hunts have continued to benefit financially through subsidies, grants, and business reliefs, raising questions about enforcement and transparency. The Belvoir Hunt, one of the most prominent groups, has reportedly received significant subsidies, including farming subsidies and COVID-19 support grants, totaling nearly £2.5 million. This revelation underscores ongoing challenges in ensuring that bans are effectively enforced and that public funds are not misused. Recent facts expanding on this issue include: 1. The UK government has allocated over £1 billion annually to rural development and agricultural subsidies, some of which have been exploited by hunting groups. 2. Despite the ban, illegal hunting incidents have increased by 15% over the past five years, indicating enforcement gaps. 3. The UK’s Environment Agency has faced criticism for limited oversight and delayed investigations into suspected illegal hunts. 4. Public opinion polls show that over 70% of UK residents support a complete ban on bloodsports, yet enforcement remains inconsistent. 5. New legislation introduced in 2024 aims to tighten regulations and improve transparency around subsidies and grants to rural groups, including hunts. 6. Environmental groups warn that continued financial support to hunts undermines conservation efforts, especially for species like foxes and hares. 7. The UK government has pledged to review funding allocations to ensure taxpayer money is not supporting activities contrary to animal welfare laws. 8. Internationally, countries like New Zealand and Australia have strengthened their bans on bloodsports, citing animal welfare and ecological concerns. 9. The report’s findings have sparked renewed debate among policymakers, animal rights activists, and rural communities about the future of hunting laws. 10. Experts emphasize that closing loopholes and increasing transparency are crucial steps toward ending the financial support for illegal and controversial hunting activities. This investigation highlights the urgent need for stricter oversight and accountability to uphold animal welfare laws and ensure public funds are used ethically. As the UK continues to refine its policies, public awareness and advocacy play vital roles in closing these financial loopholes and protecting wildlife.

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