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Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill - Sitting 6

18 November 2021

Proposing MP
Daniel Zeichner Lab
Cambridge
Type
Public Bill Committee

At a Glance

Issue Summary

Daniel Zeichner proposes a new clause to review the keeping of exotic animals as pets in England and suggests legislative measures based on the findings within one year. Daniel Zeichner is discussing the potential for amending the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill to include a review of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 and its effectiveness. The statement discusses proposals for mandatory microchipping of cats and a review of cat breeding licensing. Daniel Zeichner discusses the importance of establishing a network of local abattoirs in the UK to address concerns over long-distance transportation of livestock and improve animal welfare. The statement addresses the welfare concerns of non-native game birds, particularly those reared in cages for sporting purposes. Daniel Zeichner is expressing gratitude and acknowledging the progress made during the Committee discussions on the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill.

Action Requested

The MP requests that the Secretary of State conduct a comprehensive review of exotic pet ownership, including considerations for licensing or prohibition, and bring forward legislation within 12 months. He also emphasizes the need to address welfare issues and population declines caused by the exotic pet trade.

Key Facts

  • The RSPCA received 6,119 reports in 2020 related to exotic pets involving 22,865 animals.
  • There is no accurate estimate of how many exotic animals are present in the UK due to lax regulations.
  • Exotic animals often require specific environmental conditions and dietary requirements which owners may not be able to provide.
  • The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 has failed to reduce hospital admissions due to dog bites or improve public safety.
  • Between March 2005 and February 2015, the number of hospital admissions in England due to dog bites increased by 76% from 4,110 to 7,227.
  • A Middlesex University report on responsible dog ownership across all breeds will be published in December.
  • New clause would require cats over a certain age in England to be microchipped within six months of the Act being passed.
  • Cats Protection's report found that there are 2.8 million owned cats without a microchip across the UK, which is more than a quarter of all owned cats.
  • The Government received 33,000 responses in their consultation on cat microchipping and will publish their response by the end of the year.
  • A post-implementation review of dog microchipping regulations highlights difficulties with current databases that need addressing.
  • The Secretary of State must carry out a review of appropriate licencing arrangements for cat breeders, including restrictions based on genotype, conformation, behaviour or state of health.
  • There are only 62 local slaughterhouses left according to a report by National Craft Butchers.
  • Seven out of ten abattoir owners are aged over 51, with 11% still working beyond retirement age.
  • Over half of abattoir owners have no plan for someone younger to take over.
  • Around 50 million pheasants and partridges are mass produced in the UK annually for sporting purposes.
  • Animal Aid estimates tens of thousands of game birds suffer in cages, experiencing feather loss, injuries, and stress-induced harm.
  • The current code of practice is not legally binding but sets standards including enriched cage requirements.
  • The Minister is being addressed but not made cross.
  • The amendment updates the long title of the Bill.
  • The Committee discussion has been constructive and helpful.
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