The animal rights activists have taken to social media to criticise the proposed relaxation of the 2005 prohibition, which was introduced in England and Wales and made it illegal for hunters to use more than two dogs to chase a fox.

Politicians will vote to amend the Hunting Act in Britain's Parliament on 16 July (15) so an unlimited number of dogs can chase their prey, but many critics believe the move will effectively rescind the ban.

MCCartney has opposed the vote, writing on Twitter.com, "The people of Britain are behind this Tory Government on many things but the vast majority of us will be against them if hunting is reintroduced. It is cruel and unnecessary and will lose them support from ordinary people and animal lovers like myself."

Gervais added, "Why would anyone want the right to dress up and chase a fox to watch it ripped apart by dogs? I honestly don't get it. Keep the ban", before urging his followers to write to their local politician to oppose the rule-change.