SIR: it may surprise 'Colin' (BEN April 14), to hear that I nearly always respond to the letters which I receive, especially those from constituents.

It is difficult to respond, however, to anonymous letters!

I was born into an agricultural community, and my father, as well as working on the land, was a part time butcher.

Occasionally a hunt rampaged across our countryside, trampling crops and smashing fences, hedges and ditches. So I have observed cruelty to animals at close quarters!

Michael Foster's original Bill was flawed. After all, it was a Private Member's Bill. However the faults to which 'Colin' refers, were put right in extensive committee sittings.

Clearly he hasn't read the Bill as it stands today. The one about walking a dog, which subsequently chases a mammal (of any sort), is an old chestnut!

The divine right of hereditary Peers to sit in The House of Lords, has nothing to do with democracy!

I assume Colin is an aristocrat (or has aspirations).

Brian Iddon MP

House of Commons

London

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