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My Christmas / New Year break from the blog will be continuing for another week or so.

Meanwhile, however, a seasonal entry. On Boxing Day the hunting movement despite the law, which they regard as unenforceable. This reflects the fact that since the Hunting Act was passed there has been only limited Police intervention with the activities of hunts.

An insight into Police thinking about some of the practicalities involved can be gleaned from guidance issued to officers by Northumbria Police, which has been obtained by the ³ÉÈËÂÛ̳ under freedom of information. It states:

"It is suggested that mass arrests would not be appropriate. This would have a significant effect on Northumbria Police resources in processing the arrests and also in dealing with searching and the associated seizure of evidence e.g. a pack of hounds. This would also, no doubt, cause widespread media attention. In following the ACPO guidance officers should record names/addresses of the alleged 'offender' and any witnesses as well as securing other appropriate available evidence. The incident would be documented and forwarded to the relevant Chief Inspector of Operations where consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) would be undertaken to determine whether to prosecute.

"On the issue of search and seizure officers should also be aware of the associated practicalities. For example, if hounds/horses are seized as evidence, then the officer will need to identify kennelling and stabling at the area commands expense. Kennels for stray dogs in area commands could only be used for short periods, and under no circumstances are kennels provided for police dogs in area commands (or HQ Kennels) to be used, no matter how short the period. In relation to the seizure of horses the Mounted Unit stables and horseboxes can not be used, and so alternatives would have to be arranged."

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