The British Veterinary Association (BVA) is urging the Government to deliver on its stated commitment to animal health and welfare by prioritising bringing a suite of measures that provide lasting cross-species benefits into law in the next parliamentary session.
This week saw confirmation that the Kept Animals Bill will continue its passage into law via a carryover motion in the next parliamentary session. The new legislation comprises a range of measures which will bring in significant positive change for the health and welfare of pets, livestock and wildlife in the UK.
BVA has long campaigned for action in areas covered by the Bill, including measures to tackle puppy smuggling, review zoo standards and impose a ban on keeping primates as pets. However, progress has stalled in recent months owing to other demands on parliamentary time.
Justine Shotton, BVA president, said: “The Kept Animals Bill is a crucial and long-awaited piece of legislation that promises to address many of what our members have recognised as the most pressing animal health and welfare issues of our times.
“We recognise that some other events have rightly and understandably taken parliamentary priority in recent weeks, but it’s disappointing that this golden opportunity to improve the health and welfare of billions of animals faces a further wait to become a reality.
“BVA urges the Government to put this vital legislation high on the agenda and give it the final push it needs to get over the line as early as possible in the next parliamentary session.”
