Sir, – The irony of Michael Mac Guinness’s melodramatic equating of hare coursing with republicanism (April 11th), while writing from the libertarian stronghold of Saudi Arabia, brought a smile to my face. I’m still not sure if his letter was intended satirically.
The fact that a practice has a “tradition” is no argument for its preservation. If that were the case, slavery and witch-hunting would still be common practice today.
Not all liberties are equal. It is the duty of a civilised, progressive society to check atavistic, anachronistic practices like these.
I suggest that those who engage in hare coursing try a different hobby, such as walking a dog. Listening to the radio may also prove diversionary.
In the meantime, I hope Mr Mac Guinness enjoys the falconry in the Saudi Arabia to its fullest extent, as it is universally recognised as the one indispensable liberty in the region. Now, if only hares could navigate dunes better. Yours, etc,