I WONDER how many of your readers remember the old family game of Consequences?

It is a pity it has gone out of fashion as it might have helped some of our political leaders when making decisions on our behalf.

I am not referring to Mr Blair's war, but the subject of foxhunting.

OK, so we do away with centuries old traditions but has anyone considered why they were started in the first place? Was it not to rid the countryside of the pest of foxes?

To date I have yet to hear of an alternative way foxes are to be controlled in future.

Whether you live in the country or town, foxes left unchecked present a serious threat in many ways. Ask any French farmer what effect it has on his sheep, dogs, pets and livestock. In Japan the situation is even worse.

Nearer home we get upset when a chicken house is ripped apart, but has anyone ever thought of the consequences if foxes are left to breed and roam unchecked?

Heaven forbid they contract rabies as they have in France.

Like the war in Iraq, fox hunting may be easy to stop but the consequences may go on for years.

STEVE PASCALL

Silverless Street

Marlborough