UK: MP bids to protect vulnerable animals
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MP bids to protect vulnerable animals
09 December 2005
A PETITION backing proposed changes to animal cruelty legislation has been
launched by Hemsworth's MP.
Jon Trickett kicked off the animal welfare petition, in support of a new
Animal Welfare Bill, last week.
The bill would bring together and modernise welfare law, some of which dates
back to 1911.
If passed, it would give law enforcers greater powers to take action against
people who mistreat animals. It would also provide a framework for
preventative measures and stricter punishment for repeat offenders.
Mr Trickett, who will be in South Elmsall town centre tomorrow to collect
signatures, said: "This bill will make a real difference in the fight
against animal cruelty.
"It allows those who would perpetrate animal cruelty to be held responsible
and takes measures to ensure that no animal would suffer needlessly.
"I urge people in my constituency to support the RSPCA and let the
government know that they want this bill passed."
Janet List, chairman of the local RSPCA, added: "Our current animal welfare
laws are nearly 100 years old and desperately need updating.
"It is totally unacceptable that an animal has to suffer before action can
be taken when they may be kept in filthy conditions with no shelter or in an
inappropriate environment.
"The RSPCA has been lobbying for better laws to prevent animals from
suffering neglect and cruelty for a long time and is delighted that the
current legislation will be updated."