Last week I, along with other MPs, met with Lord Benyon to continue our call for the introduction of tougher pet theft measures, to put an end to this and the abhorrent crime of puppy smuggling.
I've been pleased to see:
- Increased maximum animal cruelty sentences
- Recognised animal sentience in law
- Improving farming standards through the animal Health and Welfare Pathway
- Made microchipping for cats compulsory
- New fines for offences against animals
- Ivory Act came into force in 2022, banning certain ivory sales
- Banning glue traps
- Give police additional powers to tackle hare coursing
- Supporting a ban on advertising low welfare animal activities abroad
- Supporting a ban for the import and export of detached shark fins
As you can see the Government has been making good progress on animal welfare, but there is always more to do.
