SIR: Your readers may be aware that the Country Sports Animal Welfare Group has written to the 87,000 members of the British Field Sports Society (BFSS) urging them to join the RSPCA. The first objective of the BFSS is "to ensure the retention of field sports" while one of the stated policies of the RSPCA opposes the hunting of animals with dogs.

The Chairman of the RSPCA Council went on public record to make sure that all BFSS members who were contemplating joining the RSPCA were fully aware of the Society's policy of opposition to hunting animals with dogs.

An example of how the Society is pursuing the above policy was illustrated when the Wild Mammals (Protection) Bill became law. This Act established protection for all wild animals from acts of wanton cruelty. We believe it is a first step towards the abolition of hunting with dogs.

A national survey conducted last year found that seven out of 10 people felt that blood sports should be illegal.

We are concerned that the RSPCA should continue to reflect the views of the public by always maintaining a balanced, informed and representative debate of all animal welfare issues. We urge the public, who wish to express their views, to contact us at the local RSPCA branch and enquire about membership.

P G Evans (Chairman Bolton RSPCA),

205 St George's Road,

Bolton

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