I NOTE that the government has decided not to enforce the pre-stunning of animals killed for habal and kosher meat.

The government said it was "disinclined to legislate against strongly held beliefs."

Well I can't argue with that, the entire fox hunting brigade could.

We all know that those who lust after a ban on fox hunting are motivated precisely because they want to ride roughshod over the deeply held beliefs of an indigenous cultural minority.

So why aren't the same people kicking up and complaining about ritual slaughter where animals are having their throats cut while still alive and conscious, but that is religion.

But as this practice has a religious theme then I doubt if the RSPCA and LACS or the farm animal welfare council will pursue the matter.

So why is the RSPCA keeping so quiet on this matter when it is so outspoken on hunting?

Remember the RSPCA helped to produce some sickening advertisements about hunting designed to instil loathing of the hunting community.

So why are they so moderate now on an issue that involves the cruel slaughter of one million animals per year (by a very cruel and painful method) as opposed to the killing of perhaps 18,000 foxes, killed instantly by a pack of foxhounds.

So, why aren't the League Against Cruel Sports and the RSPCA issuing a dossier on ritual slaughter?

So I welcome a reply from the Rev Bert and P Beaven. How do you condone the cruel slaughter of animals by cutting their throats while still alive and condemn the countryside practice of foxhunting?

Could it be religion and the fact that the government and the previously mentioned groups are afraid that by banning this cruel slaughter in the name of religion they might be upsetting the thousands of our immigrant and asylum friends, who are flocking to this country.

A CURTIS

Wootton Bassett