Sir, – The vast majority of people are against killing animals for fun and want the Hunting Act to remain. But some candidates want to repeal the Hunting Act. Here are the views of some North-East candidates: Bishop Auckland: Mark Wilkes (Lib Dem) and Helen Goodman (Labour) will vote against repeal. Barbara Harrison (Conservative) will listen to views of constituents if elected.

Sedgefield: Phil Wilson (Labour) will vote against repeal.

Alan Thompson (Lib Dem) and Neil Mahapatra (Conservative) have not responded.

Darlington: Jenny Chapman (Labour) is against repeal. Edward Legard has said he will listen to views of constituents if elected. Michael Barker (Lib Dem) has not responded.

North West Durham: Pat Glass (Labour) will vote against repeal. Michelle Tempest (Conservative) and Owen Temple (Lib Dem) have not responded.

If hunting is reintroduced as a benchmark, what hope does the country have in other areas of animal welfare? Now is the time to be a voice for the voiceless. It will be too late after May 6.

L EDWARDS, Co-ordinator, Durham Support Group, League Against Cruel Sports