There is no place in this country for animal cruelty, and we must ensure that those who abuse animals are met with the full force of the law.
I am assured that animals are protected under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. This Act requires those in charge of animals to protect them from harm and to ensure their key welfare needs are provided for. Those in charge of animals who fail to protect them from harm, or fail to provide for their welfare needs, may be prosecuted.
The Government delivered on its manifesto commitment to increase sentences for animal cruelty through the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act 2021. This Act provides one of the toughest sanctions in Europe for animal cruelty offences, enabling tougher prison sentences for the most serious perpetrators of animal cruelty, from the previous maximum of six months to up to five years. I believe that this increase in sentencing will send a clear message that this behaviour will not be tolerated.
Finally, I am aware that legislation has come into effect introducing the option to issue fixed penalty notices of £5,000 for a range of animal health and welfare related offences. This penalty is in addition to the existing range of enforcement measures, including warning letters, statutory notices or movement restrictions to protect animals and help ensure animal keepers follow the law.