Emotion trumps logic

PARLIAMENT’S decision to ban the import of hunting trophies into the UK was sadly a victory for emotion and sentimentality over common sense.

Despite representatives of five African countries saying that regulated hunting of big game was an essential and lucrative part of their conservation strategy, MPs allowed hearts to rule heads.

Like deer in London’s royal parks, animals will need to be culled anyway to preserve the health of the herds and to ensure they don’t become too numerous. Only now it will cost money rather than generating it.

Supporters of this Bill are no doubt bristling with pride over their virtuous stand against the odious hobby hunters. But according to local conservationists, they have caused more damage than they know.