AN East Lancashire MP has described the threat by a local hunt to shoot its hounds if their bloodsport is banned as "absolutely ridiculous."

Rossendale and Darwen's Janet Anderson is sure homes could be found for the animals. She spoke out as MPs prepared to vote on whether to ban hunting with hounds.

If it was banned Arnold Greenhalgh, joint master of the Holcombe Harriers, said slaughter was the only option for the dogs. Mrs Anderson, who would vote for a total ban except for the fact that she is in America for a film festival, said of Mr Greenhalgh's remarks: "It's absolutely ridiculous. I can't believe that they cannot find good homes for hounds."

Mr Greenhalgh, from Brindle, said the hunt which regularly visits Rossendale would have no choice but to shoot the dogs. They were of no use if a ban came in, could not be retrained and could not become pets because they have been bred and trained as pack dogs.The RSPCA denied shooting would be necessary.