DEFIANT mink farmer Terence Smith has won the right to challenge the government over its allegedly "inadequate" compensation for the loss of his business.

Mr Smith, who owns the operation at Crow Hill Farm near Ringwood, was one of ten fur farmers who were yesterday (October 17) granted the chance to seek a judicial review by the High Court over the cash payments planned for when the ban on the trade comes into force on January 1. Under the Fur Farming Compensation Scheme, all businesses affected are entitled to receive fair recompense for their loss.

But Mr Smith, who lives at West Stapehill, and his fellow farmers said the government's stance was "unfair and arbitrary", that the terms of the scheme have not been properly explained, and that the figures mooted fell well short of market value.

After a short hearing, judge Mr Justice Newman ruled their case was "arguable".

The group were supported by the National Farmers' Union, and spokesman Barney Holbeche said the provisional compensation package had been pegged at £1.6 million for all ten farmers - but that a total of £16 million would have been fairer and more realistic.

Mr Smith's mink farm at Crow Hill recently ceased trading after almost 40 years in business amid growing pressure from animal rights protesters. He plans to convert facilities there to keep rabbits. An application to install temporary accommodation for a site manager currently rests with New Forest District Council.