A series of public hearings on the future of foxhunting, likely in September, are announced by Rural Affairs minister Alun Michael.

Paul Brown, environment correspondent. Report on three-year study "Where the Birds Sing" shows the impact of predators: rats, foxes, stoats, weasels, crows and magpies.

A deadline of July 15 had been imposed on those wanting to put the case for or against a ban, and now public hearings will be carried out as well, probably in September.

Hunting supporters yesterday urged the Government not to use the Parliament Act to steamroller a ban into law after DEFRA Minister Lord Whitty indicated they might.

Roger Scruton. The European landscape reflects the interaction of hunting and farming, and it is partly because this interaction remains such a vital part of the English rural economy that hunting is the focus of a major political battle.

Charles Clover, environment editor. Alun Michael, the rural affairs minister, issues a new consultation document seeking further definition of the key concepts of "cruelty" and "utility".

Adam Lusher. The RSPCA's ruling council has created a secret committee to recommend the disqualification of 'inappropriate' members in an attempt to stop pro-hunting campaigners being elected to its governing body.

Collection of reader letters.

Valerie Elliott, countryside editor. DEFRA's Alun Michael announced open hearings which will straddle the planned march in London by the Countryside Alliance.

Valerie Elliott. The charity is being criticised of preventing hunting supporters from serving on its ruling council.