For years we have seen MPs voting by huge majorities on behalf of their constituents to ban the so-called "sport" of hunting with dogs and for years the House of Lords has obstructed such legislation.

Two months ago, the Government's Hunting Bill, which will ban the hunting of all wild animals with dogs, was overwhelmingly voted through the House of Commons by MPs.

On September 16 the Bill reaches its next stage, when peers in the House of Lords will have an opportunity to voice their views on the issue.

The Lords must not be allowed to frustrate the will of the elected chamber. If necessary, the Bill must be introduced in the next parliamentary session beginning in November, when the Parliament Act applies and the Bill can finally become law.

Polling of the public has consistently shown majority support for a ban and it is the duty of the elected politicians to ensure this is finally reflected on the statute books.

Hunting is cruel and unnecessary and should not be allowed to continue in the 21st Century. We are closer than ever to consigning this barbaric practice to the history books.

It is now up to elected politicians to ensure this is the case.

-Claire Robinson, senior parliamentary officer, RSPCA, Southwater, Horsham