Letter: Unethical hunt stance

Sir: I am disgusted with the

National Trust ('National Trust

rejects ban on deer hunting', 21 April). The fundamental question is an ethical one: do the hunters enjoy an activity that results in the killing of an animal, not for food, but for entertainment?

Given the numbers involved (hunters and hounds) and the pageantry, it is difficult to see how the answer could be no. In shuffling off its responsibilities in a cowardly fashion on to the government of the day, the National Trust is stating clearly that the accommodation and appeasing of certain landlords and their friends is more important than setting an example on a matter of principle, even when a majority of its voting members has indicated where its support lies.

Yours sincerely,

C. SAUNDERS

Sale, Cheshire

21 April