Queen’s speech outlines plans for new Agriculture Bill
Animal charities have welcomed proposals set out in the Queen’s Speech to protect the welfare of animals.
In her address to Parliament on Thursday (19 December), the Queen did not specifically mention animal welfare. However, background briefings set out measures to increase maximum sentences for animal cruelty and end long journeys of animals going to slaughter for fattening.
The legislation includes an extension on the maximum sentence for animal cruelty offences to five years, and a clear statement in domestic law that animals are sentient beings. It also sets out measures to deliver on commitments on primates as pets, cat microchipping and on the import of trophies from the hunting of endangered animals.
Welcoming the news, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home tweeted: “We’re so pleased to see five-year sentences for animal cruelty in the #QueensSpeech. It’s time to finally see this change become law.”
David Bowles, who heads up the RSPCA campaigns and public affairs work, said: “We @RSPCA_official are delighted that @10DowningStreet set out animal sentience and increased sentencing & sending farm payments to animal welfare in today’s @DefraGovUK programme - looking forward to January.”
The International Fund for Animal Welfare UK added: “We're delighted that the Queen's Speech has included increased sentences for animal abusers and legal recognition of animal sentience. We'll continue to campaign to get these passed swiftly in the new Parliament.”
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
