I WAS interested in the letter by Chris Deacon (July 19) headlined 'Keep hunt ban'.

Many of those opposed to hunting with dogs for sport have been critical of the Conservative party for their intention to hold a 'free vote' on whether the Hunting Act 2004 should be repealed. This may appear to be a perfectly reasonable democratic process, enabling all MPs to vote according to the wishes of their constituents, or in accordance with their own conscience, without being subjected to their party whip.

But is it democratic? A recent Early Day Motion, tabled in the House of Commons, has so far attracted 139 Labour signatories and 21 Liberal Democrats, but only one Conservative MP has signed the Motion. EDM 116 calls on the House to reaffirm its support for the Hunting Act 2004 and says any attempt to repeal the Act would be a retrograde step and out of keeping with a civilised society. However, I wonder why only one Conservative has signed this? A possible explanation may be found in a news report published last year in which Alison Hawes, South West regional director of the Countryside Alliance, was reported as saying even if the Conservatives held a free vote, newly-elected Tory MPs were unlikely to defy their leader to oppose repeal.

I believe this comment may well be valid, but in my opinion it calls into question the democratic credentials of the Conservative party and makes nonsense of their claim that a vote on repeal of the Act would be 'free'.

JOHN PHELPS

Exeter