Tory MP in cash row over hunting ban U-turn

By Alex Smith / @alexsmith1982

The League Against Cruel Sports has today written to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards over concerns that Nick Herbert, the Shadow Secretary for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has been compromised, following cash donations from pro-hunt campaigners.

After Gabe Trodd wrote on LabourList that Herbert has received £24,500 in seven separate donations following an announcement on July 22nd that the Tories would hold a free vote on whether or not to repeal the Hunting Act if elected, the League’s Chief Executive Douglas Batchelor said:

“We have serious concerns that Mr Herbert’s judgement on this issue has been compromised following large cash donations from hunt supporters. We believe he has breached conduct by accepting the cash and we would urge for a full and transparent inquiry into the matter.”

Speaking on Radio 4’s Today Programme, Herbert has today announced a change of Tory policy, and pledged that repeal of the Hunting Ban would now be given Government time for a new Bill if the Conservatives get into power – a policy the League believes may be the direct result of the donations.