RSPCA responds to second reading of Agriculture Bill, animal welfare support
UK - The RSPCA has issued a response to the second reading of the Agriculture Bill which supports animal welfare initiativesRSPCA Head of Public Affairs David Bowles said: “It’s very exciting that animal welfare pilot programmes can start in 2020; we have already provided Defra with fifty examples which we believe would fit within the new Bill.
“We are also pleased that our amendment asking for a duty to be put on ministers to support animal welfare was broadly supported by speakers.
“There was also endorsement for our call for funds to be specifically earmarked to support animal welfare, in light of the government’s recognition that it is a public good. And when it comes to trade deals, a ban on goods imported into the UK produced to lower welfare standards is really welcome as that will protect our farm animals, farmers and consumers.
“The new Agriculture Bill is definitely moving in the right direction. We’re looking forward to the Committee Stage where these important issues relating to animal welfare post-Brexit can be explored in more depth”.
As reported by the RSPCA