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.

MPs have three options -- allowing hunting with dogs to continue under voluntary regulations, hunting with dogs under a licence from a new hunting authority, or a total ban. They would be much better off in a happy home where they can be looked after rather than going out to chase foxes and rip them to pieces."

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.