Adam Trimingham (The Argus, September 29) intelligently examined the complex nature of animal ethics in Britain.

He pointed out, for example, the anomaly that the RSPCA receives more support than the NSPCC.

Because most Brits are sentimental about animals, we would rather not be reminded about the realities that butchers, slaughtermen, gamekeepers and farmers deal with every day.

It is also easier to project our feelings on to animals, which are often less challenging than human beings. Hence the very real and understandable horror everyone felt when rogue hunt supporters dumped carcasses in Brighton last week.

The hunting debate is a silly debate in many ways because both sides agree that a ban will not reduce the number of animals that are deliberately killed each year but merely change the method.

Nevertheless, it carries with it passions on both sides that seem out of all proportion to the size of the issue. If we are not careful, Brits will soon become the laughing stock of the world.

We must resolve this issue soon in a sensible way. A hunting ban and its consequences will make us look ridiculous. Think about it.

-Dominic Webber, Heathfield