Anti-bloodsports campaigner Angela Smith was today celebrating the Government's decision to ban hunting with dogs.

Mrs Smith, MP for Basildon and East Thurrock, has actively supported the campaign to ban the blood sport, including appealing to the public on the streets of Basildon on many occasions.

MPs last night voted for a total ban on hunting foxes with dogs in England and Wales.

Members supported an outright ban by an overwhelming majority of 208 in the House of Commons after a five-and-a-half hour debate as demonstrators from both camps protested outside Parliament.

Mrs Smith said she was "overwhelmed" at the response, but always knew which way she would vote.

Published Tuesday, July 1, 2003

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