Tories to include fox hunting in National Citizen Service

Leaked documents seen by CYP Now reveal that the Tories intend to repeal the Hunting Act 2004, so that fox hunting can be added to the NCS schedule in time for the 2016 intake.

The eye-catching policy, which is likely to prove politically divisive, has been developed following research by centre-right think-tank the Tinkler Foundation.

An unpublished study by the organisation found that the skills required in fox hunting – listed as "a mixture of etiquette, poise, physical activity and dressing well" – boost social development and raise aspiration in young people.

Researchers found that of a group of 118 young people aged between 14 and 18 who participated in a fox hunting initiative in Northern Ireland, where the practice remains legal, around 72 per cent reported that their character had improved either “moderately” or “substantively” as a result.

However the foundation does predict that inclusion of fox hunting on the NCS, which is designed for 15- to 17-year-olds, could adversely affect the participation rate, with the drop out rate also potentially suffering.

A senior Conservative source confirmed the plans to CYP Now but predicted they are only likely to be pursued if the party gains an overall majority in the House of Commons.