TORY MP Peter Luff will today begin taking evidence on how his proposals for a "middle way" on hunting can be resurrected.

The Mid-Worcestershire MP wants hunting with dogs to continue under strict licensing.

He argues it is a compromise between the outright ban favoured by MPs and the preferred option of Peers - to maintain the status quo.

But the "middle way" was overwhelmingly rejected by Peers in the last Parliament - placing them on a collision course with MPs.

Now Mr Luff's Middle Way Group is to take evidence from interested parties. The aim is to refine the proposals and win new supporters ahead of another free vote.

Today, a number of hunting associations were due to discuss the proposals, along with the Farmers' Union of Wales, Independent Supervisory Authority for Hunting and the British Association for Shooting and Conservation.

A second evidence session will be held on Thursday, attended by the NFU.

Safeguard

"I regret the fact that Parliament will be wasting more time on debating hunting," Mr Luff said.

"There are so many more important animal and human welfare issues.

"The Middle Way proposals are the only ones that can safeguard animal welfare and human freedom, but we must make sure they'll work.

"That's what these evidence sessions are about - making sure there are no weak links in our chain.

"When the Commons next discusses hunting, it will have watertight proposals from the Middle Way group."

Last week, more than 160 MPs - including Worcester MP Mike Foster - signed an Early Day Motion calling for the pursuit to be outlawed within the next 12 months.

The Commons is almost certain to vote for an outright ban when the free vote takes place. Peers are again expected to reject this.

Mr Luff believes this will pave the way for his compromise option to emerge triumphant, but the Government could still use the Parliament Act to force through the will of the Commons.