MPs last night voted by an overwhelming majority of 213 to ban hunting with hounds, despite countrywide protests against the move. On a free vote, the Commons voted by 387 to 174, for a ban, rejecting the options of self-regulation or a licensing system.
The outcome of a six-hour debate, which fell short of previous ones in terms of passion, was greeted by cheers in the packed chamber.
Outside Parliament, disappointed pro-hunt campaigners blew whistles and hunting horns in defiance of the result at the end of a three-day vigil.
But they were comforted by the fact that the Hunting Bill is certain to face fierce opposition in the Lords and could founder if the Prime Minister, Mr Blair, calls a spring election. Mr Blair was missing for the vote as he was on a visit to Northern Ireland, but again made clear his preference for a ban.
In committee stage debate on the Bill, Labour backbenchers lined up to condemn the "barbaric" practice of hunting, while Tories defended hunting on the grounds of individual rights.
Mr Michael Foster MP (Labour) who tried unsuccessfully four years ago to ban fox hunting through a private member's bill, again insisted this was the only "consistent and principled" option.
"Hunting with dogs is cruel and unnecessary and it's time this practice was stopped," he insisted. said.
But the Tory MP and former home secretary, Mr Michael Howard, opposing a ban, criticised a "trivial, frivolous and irresponsible" Government for bringing the issue forward at a time of rising violent crime.