For the second time, the topic of banning snares has been debated in Westminster.

MPs gathered in Westminster Hall to discuss the future of free-running snares, which are mostly used by gamekeepers to catch and then kill wildlife.

MP Margaret Ferrier, speaking of the use of snares, said: "Their use should not be seen as necessary—they absolutely are not necessary.' She also highlighted the British Veterinary Association's opposition to snares."

Rachael Maskell MP also spoke robustly on the issue saying ‘Snares are cruel—no ifs, no buts'. 

Snares were described as ‘indiscriminate and universally cruel' by Olivia Blake MP and Tracey Crouch MP said: "It is my very strong view that there is no need for snares at all. There is no justification for them. They are old-school methods of pest control that have no place in a modern society."

In addition to the support of more than 100,000 people, the government petition was also backed by a huge range of animal protection and rescue organisations including Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, the Cats Trust, the Badger Trust - as well as notable personalities such as Chris Packham, Peter Egan and Deborah Meaden.