MP Peter Luff was today calling on MPs to attend the second reading of the Hunting With Dogs Bill.

Mr Luff, who is the joint chairman of the Cross-Party Middle Way Group, insisted it was "vital" that the subject was aired properly at the House of Commons.

The Mid-Worcestershire MP claimed that it would be "almost impossible" to consider the options available without a high turnout.

"We're looking for a factual debate, without spin or interpretation," said Mr Luff.

"It would be a shame if MPs voted according to gut-feeling rather than concrete facts."

The Middle Way group fears MPs will skip today's hearing and vote for a complete ban in mid-January.

The group suggests a "regulatory solution" is an alternative to a ban.

Members suggest courts could be given the power to oversee matters such as the length of the hunting season.

"The Bill is a waste of time and there are more important issues that should take up our time," added Mr Luff.