Tony Blair has hinted at a compromise over the Hunting Bill.

Speaking after the Northern Ireland talks at Leeds Castle, the prime minister said: "We sought a compromise. Unfortunately it was rejected in the Commons and the Lords. We'll have to find a way through."

John Jackson, chairman of the Countryside Alliance, said: "It was a very strong hint. We will now tell the Lords the Alliance thinks it should amend the banning bill to allow licensed hunting."