Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Animal Charities: Covid-19

19 January 2021 · 2 other contributors

Opened by David Amess Con Southend West

Agriculture & Rural Affairs

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

David Amess raised concerns about animal charities: covid-19 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Sir David Amess raised concerns about the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic on animal charities.
  • The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals estimated financial losses of 101.4 million for the sector.
  • The Minister acknowledged the importance of animal welfare organisations and noted income shortfalls due to charity shops being closed and fundraising difficulties.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

David Amess Con Southend West

Sir David Amess raised the issue of how animal charities have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic. He highlighted that these organisations, which provide essential support to animals unable to help themselves, have suffered greatly due to reduced income and fewer employees. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals estimated financial losses of £101.4 million across the sector last year. He emphasised the importance of providing targeted support packages and called for more assistance for equine charities and zoos.

Other contributors (2)
  • Duncan Baker Con North Norfolk

    He raised concerns about commercial boarding kennels not receiving sufficient financial assistance during the pandemic, which could lead to an increase in abandoned pets for animal charities to manage.

  • Marco Longhi Con Dudley North

    He highlighted the difficulties faced by Dudley Zoo due to loss of income from visitors and urged Ministers to reconsider the eligibility criteria and support package for zoos.

Government Response

Victoria Prentis

The Minister acknowledged the importance of animal welfare organisations, which protect animals against cruelty and ensure unwanted animals find loving homes. She highlighted that fewer pets were abandoned during lockdown but noted income shortfalls for many charities due to charity shops not being able to open and difficulty in fundraising. The Government provided support through the furlough scheme, which benefitted between 50% and 60% of animal welfare charities. Victoria Prentis emphasised ongoing efforts such as consultations on banning third-party commercial sales of puppies and kittens, plans to ban exports for slaughter and fattening, and a consultation on microchipping cats. The Minister assured that the Government remains committed to animal welfare and will continue working closely with the sector.

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