Thank you for taking the time to contact me about animal cruelty sentencing.
It is entirely right that the UK has a robust legal framework to tackle this vicious behaviour in the Animal Welfare Act 2006 which makes it an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to any animal, so like you I was pleased that the Government is bringing forward legislation to increase punishments for the most horrific acts of animal cruelty to five years.
In April, I held a debate in Parliament on the issue of puppy smuggling which I am pleased to say a number of MPs from all political parties attended and contributed to. I urged the Minister, David Rutley, to bring before Parliament as soon as possible the already-promised five year sentence, and I was pleased that a number of colleagues joined me in demanding it is introduced as soon as possible. You can view the highlights of my speech at: https://www.nigelhuddleston.com/news/i-lead-debate-puppy-smuggling.
I hope this assures you that I am fully aware of this important issue, and that I will continue to raise this matter with Mr Rutley to ensure the legislation is introduced as soon as possible.
Thank you again for getting in touch.
