§ Lord Melchettasked Her Majesty's Government:
Why, when large parts of the New Forest are car-free zones, supporters of the New Forest Buckhounds are allowed to take cars into such areas and into enclosures without restriction: how many cars are permitted to do this: why are they allowed to exceed 20 mph speed limit in force and drive on re-seeded areas, and how mane drivers have been banned after being reported for violations.
§ The Minister of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Lord Belstead)The Forestry Commission considers it reasonable to allow a limited number of supporters of the New Forest Buckhounds to follow the hunt in cars. Up to nine vehicles are permitted. It is a condition of the permission that they keep to gravelled tracks or roads and stay within the speed limit of 20 mph laid down in the Forestry Commission by-laws. They may not drive over reseeded areas.
It is not known how many drivers have been banned by the Masters of the Buckhounds, on whom this responsibility falls.