House of Commons · Bill Debate
02 February 2024 · 5 other contributors
Opened by Therese Coffey Con Suffolk Coastal
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Therese Coffey raised concerns about livestock worrying (england) bill in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
I move the Livestock Worrying (England) Bill, which aims to address livestock worrying by extending powers of entry and search for police, allowing dog detention during trials, updating fines, and including camelids in the livestock definition. This bill is necessary due to significant distress and costs caused by such incidents, impacting farmers' livelihoods. It aligns with manifesto commitments on animal welfare.
Supporting the Bill for its impact on livestock farmers, particularly those in my constituency who face significant costs due to dog attacks. The Bill aims to improve conditions for sheep producers and ensure better management of common lands where sheep are grazed.
This Bill is crucial in addressing the issue of dog attacks on livestock, emphasising owner responsibility. It seeks to improve police powers for enforcing laws and protecting animals from harm, which was a concern highlighted during my involvement with hare coursing legislation.
Crosbie congratulates Dr Coffey on introducing the Bill and highlights the issue of livestock worrying affecting farmers in her constituency. She cites specific instances where local farmers have suffered significant financial losses due to dog attacks, emphasising that existing legislation is outdated. Crosbie supports the new proposals which aim to update the 1953 Act by giving police powers to seize dogs and take DNA samples, requiring dogs to be on a lead near livestock, and removing the maximum fine so irresponsible owners face full financial impact.
Reed supports the Bill but emphasises the need for education alongside stronger penalties. He highlights that attacks on farm animals cost £1.8 million in the past year alone, adding to farmers' financial stress due to high energy bills and taxes. Reed calls for better control of dogs near livestock through awareness of countryside codes, securing property to prevent dog escapes, and swift reporting of incidents by both dog owners and farmers.
Mr. Moore supports the Bill, highlighting its importance in addressing livestock worrying which causes significant distress to animals and financial loss to farmers. He emphasises that animal welfare is a priority for the Government, as shown by recent reforms such as increased penalties for cruelty and microchipping requirements for cats. The Bill will extend the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953 to roads and paths and include camelids like llamas and alpacas. It also strengthens police powers to investigate and enforce these provisions.