Number 10 has said the prime minister still favours a last minute compromise deal on controversial legislation to ban fox hunting.

Speaking yesterday, Downing Street's official spokesman said the option of allowing hunting under license was still Tony Blair's personal preference.

"He still believes that this is the best way forward, but lets wait and see what the House of Lords sends back," said the spokesman.

Blair will be joined by several leading Cabinet members including Hilary Armstrong, the chief whip, and John Reid, the health secretary, if given a chance to vote on a compromise amendment to the Hunting Bill.