Chris Packham Criticizes Pro-Fox Hunters' Ethnic Minority Claim

Animal rights activist Chris Packham has expressed disbelief over a proposal by pro-fox hunters seeking recognition as a protected ethnic minority under the Equality Act 2010. The 63-year-old wildlife advocate described the notion as “desperate barrel scraping” and took to social media platform X to voice his astonishment, stating, “You couldn’t make it up…and you don’t have to.” The controversial claim has sparked a wave of reactions from nature enthusiasts online, with many condemning the practice of hunting for sport. One user remarked that hunting animals for pleasure is “abhorrent,” while another suggested that if hunters wish for protected status, they should still adhere to the law, which prohibits fox hunting. In defense of their position, a spokesperson for the hunters, identified as Swales, argued that they meet the criteria for ethnic group status, claiming that they face discrimination in employment and online harassment. Swales asserted that their passion for blood sports does not equate to cruelty, emphasizing that he does not take pleasure in animal suffering. The debate highlights the ongoing tensions between animal rights advocates and hunting enthusiasts, as Packham and supporters continue to challenge the legitimacy of the hunters' claims while advocating for wildlife protection. The situation raises questions about the intersection of cultural practices and legal protections in contemporary society.