Animal cruelty to be penalised more stringently

MPs will next consider the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill 2019 at the second reading, on a date yet to be set, following its first reading at the end of June. The bill proposes to increase the prison sentence from the current maximum of six months to a possible five years for the worst cases.
David Rutley, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at DEFRA, said: “These increased maximum sentences will act as a serious deterrent against cruelty and neglect in the future. This step builds on recent positive action we have taken to protect animals, including plans to ban third party puppy and kitten sales and banning the use of wild animals in circuses.”

Veterinary Director at Dogs Trust, Paula Boyden, said: “We whole-heartedly welcome this measure being brought forward, as we continue our fight to tackle animal cruelty – an increase from the six-month maximum sentence is long overdue and much-needed to deter offenders. We also hope the Government will guarantee the welfare of the animals involved in cruelty cases while trial proceedings take place is considered.”

Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, and sponsor of the bill, said: “There is no place in this country for animal cruelty. That is why I want to make sure that those who abuse animals are met with the full force of the law. Our new bill sends a clear message that this behaviour will not be tolerated, with the maximum five-year sentence one of the toughest punishments in Europe.”