ANTI-bloodsport campaigners in the New Forest are claiming victory after the government pledged to ban hunting with dogs in many areas.

The government's latest thinking on hunting was outlined yesterday by rural affairs minister Alun Michael, who sparked controversy by putting forward a compromise solution.

Mr Michael said hunting with dogs would be outlawed in several parts of the country, but allowed to continue under licence in others.

If the Bill goes through, New Forest Hounds and every other hunt in England and Wales will have to appear before independent panels, who will judge each application on its merits.

The New Forest Hounds appear to be facing the biggest battle in their 200-year history.

Government sources say hunts are more likely to survive in upland areas, where it is more difficult to control foxes through shooting and poisoning.

Frankie Horan of the New Forest Animal Protection Group said: "Mr Michael's announcement means the end of foxhunting in the New Forest. Hunting in the area is a recreational activity which has nothing to do with pest control. The New Forest Hounds don't stand an earthly of getting a licence under the system unveiled yesterday."

But New Forest Hounds spokesman Nick Smith claimed the proposals were unlikely to become law.

He said: "I can't believe the government wants to destroy the liberty and livelihood of so many individuals and turn people like me into criminals.

"Ministers should be sorting out genuine problems, not picking on people for simply doing what they enjoy.

"If the Bill does go through we will apply for a licence straight away. A lot of people want to go hunting in the New Forest and we have a great deal of support."

The pro-hunting Countryside Alliance said it would study the Bill closely before responding to the government.