An expert report into fox hunting in Scotland has called for the tightening up of legislation banning the controversial sport.
Lord Bonomy has recommended the introduction of hunt monitors to spot check meetings and the creation of a code of conduct for members.
According to the judge, the “unduly complicated” law, prohibiting the sport, should be reformed to make prosecutions easier.
Under the present law, packs of dogs can be used to flush foxes out of hides to be shot.
The Scottish Government will review his findings with a possible view to amending the existing legislation – which was implemented in 2002 – next year.
Scottish Green MSP Mark Ruskell welcomed the report, claiming the current law “has never been fit for purpose”.
But Scottish Countryside Alliance director Jamie Stewart countered the report had “rejected unjustified calls for further restrictions”.
Responding to the publication of the report, the government’s environment secretary, Roseanna Cunningham, said: “The Scottish Government recognised concerns about whether the legislation on fox-hunting is working properly – that is why we asked Lord Bonomy to carry out this detailed work.
“We will now carefully consider the findings, with a view to responding in 2017. Any ensuing proposals for legislative change will be subject to the proper consultation processes.”
However, Mr Ruskell argued the government “must act fast” to amend the present law.
He added: “Current legislation has never been fit for purpose and those who value barbaric tradition over animal welfare and rule of law have found many loopholes to exploit.
“Lord Bonomy’s report is clear that changes are needed to introduce greater restriction and monitoring of hunting and that landowners should also be liable for breaches of the law.”
The Scottish Countryside Alliance’s Mr Stewart insisted the group would be happy to work with the SNP administration on the findings.
He said: “We are pleased that the inquiry has recognised the importance of gun packs for fox control and has rejected unjustified calls for further restrictions.
“In particular, we are pleased Lord Bonomy, makes clear the important role gun packs play in managing the fox population and that any restriction on their activity could ‘seriously compromise effective pest control in the country’.”