SIR, Although many social issues were raised during the recent election campaign what was not mentioned was that the Conservatives in England promised the return of legalised fox hunting should they return to power in Westminster, albeit on a free vote.

Hunting wild mammals with dogs in Scotland is illegal and is a devolved matter to Holyrood. The new SNP members in Westminster who could vote against this reintroduction are stymied by the English votes for English laws proposals.

It is blatantly obvious that the Conservatives consider it is their God given right to hunt wild animals for sport just as it was in centuries gone by. When this subject comes up in conversation, debate and possibly argument my response is very simple. I do not believe in the abuse of wild animals.

I am, etc.

Derek Philips Clovenfords