WORCESTERSHIRE MPs Peter Luff and Mike Foster are preparing for a new clash over proposals to ban hunting with dogs.

The controversial issue has returned to the top of the political agenda after the launch of a fresh campaign by an alliance of anti-hunt groups.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Tony Blair was put on the spot during his regular question and answer slot in the Commons.

He was asked to confirm the Government still intended to enable Parliament to reach a conclusion on the issue.

"We promised a free vote in the Queen's Speech," Mr Blair replied.

Announcement

"There has been no decision yet on the timing of the vote but the Government will make an announcement at the appropriate time."

Worcester MP Mr Foster, who introduced a Private Member's Bill to ban the pursuit in the last Parliament, welcomed Tony Blair's comments.

"The Prime Minister has confirmed that our manifesto pledge of a free vote on the issue will be met," he said.

"That means a vote in this session - but the events of September 11 mean we don't know exactly when that will be yet. The parliamentary timetable is more crowded.

"What I do know is that a ban will get the overwhelming support of the Commons. It's then up to the Lords - in which the Government doesn't have a majority - to decide what happens next."

Middle way

Mid-Worcestershire MP Peter Luff, meanwhile, insisted his campaign for a "middle way" option was the only way forward.

He insists the "middle way" - which would allow hunting to continue under strict regulation - is the "only one to reflect public and professional opinion".

"Those in favour of a ban need to realise they no longer have the weight of public opinion behind them," added Mr Luff.

"The sooner they do this, the sooner we can have a sensible debate on what should happen next."

MPs voted overwhelmingly in favour of a ban on hunting with dogs in the last Parliament but the move was blocked in the House of Lords. The Lords also overwhelmingly rejected the "middle way" option.