THE town's three MPs are to support a total ban on fox hunting with dogs.

The trio today revealed their support for a ban after the Government decided that MPs are to be given a fresh chance next month to vote for a ban on hunting with hounds in England and Wales.

They will be asked to vote on three options being drawn up by ministers. They include an outright ban, regulation of hunting under the so-called "middle way", or no change to the current arrangements.

A similar vote will take place in the house of Lords.

The move follows intense pressure from Labour backbenchers who have been demanding ministers honour their manifesto promise to give Parliament a chance to resolve the issue once and for all.

The Government decision opens the way for a major parliamentary clash with the Lords and fierce protests by the Countryside Alliance, which is pledged to defend hunting.

It is also a relief for fox hunt protesters who see the sport as cruel and bloodthirsty.

Bolton North East MP David Crausby today said fox hunting has been the biggest single issue in his mailbag since 1997.

He said: "Fox hunting is not a sport, it is barbaric, killing for pleasure and principally wrong."

Bolton West MP Ruth Kelly says fox hunting has no place in a modern society.

She added: "Having consistently voted for an outright ban on hunting with dogs, at last, we are now on the brink of passing such legislation.

"During the last Parliament the Lords sought to deny the democratic will of the Commons on a hunting ban, thus driving another nail in their coffin, and I am pleased that the Government have decided to again put a vote to the House.

The next debate will take place in the house on March 18.

If the Commons continues to insist on a total ban, following the Scottish Parliament's example, Mr Blair is ready to force it through against Lords opposition.