1 Exhibit (23) INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement of Hancock Holding Company on Form S-8 (No. 2-99863) and on Form S-3 (No. 33-31782) of our report dated January 14, 1994 incorporated by reference in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1993. DELOITTE & TOUCHE New Orleans, Louisiana February 10, 1994