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Who's the top cat of Westminster?
Image Larry 10 Downing Street cat
Larry, Chief Mouser to the Cabinet.

Battersea on the prowl for the first Purr Minister

MPs and Lords from across the country have been nominating their feline friends, in the hope they will be chosen as the first ever Purr Minister.

The competition has been launched by Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, who are on the hunt for a top feline to join the likes of Larry, former Battersea resident who three years ago became chief mouser for No 10 Downing Street.

Fellow felines in search of a little governmental glory have each submitted a "Manifursto" explaining why they should win the public vote to be Purr Minister.

The shortlist has now been revealed, with hopefuls including Parsnip, who promises "the return of free milk", "improved fishing rights for the UK" and "1p levy, donated to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home for every cat's eye used on the highway."

MP for Swindon North, Justin Tomlinson, nominated his cat Montague, who states: "I have trained Justin & Jo to provide treats and attention on call. To keep them in check, I’ve formed a coalition with my sister Maggie and Susie the scruffy rescue dog.

"My interests are food, sleeping and miaowing loudly throughout the night which I think Justin & Jo appreciate."

To view the Manifurstos and vote for your favourite, visit Battersea's website. The election closes on February 13, 2014.

Image courtesy of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.