Written question asked by John McDonnell (Labour) on Thursday, 6 February 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 24 February 2003. It was answered by Elliot Morley (Labour) on Monday, 24 February 2003 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dept for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what measures have been introduced by the Government to improve the welfare of animals, with particular reference to enforcement measures. - Inc ref to Animal Welfare Bill.

Answer: John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what measures have been introduced by the Government to improve the welfare of animals, with particular reference to enforcement measures. [97129] Mr. Morley: The Government recognise the need to ensure that existing animal welfare legislation is effectively enforced to ensure compliance with the standards. Co-ordination of enforcement across the different enforcement agencies, such as the state veterinary service and local authorities is a priority task. We have for some time been investing resource to ensure development of closer working relationships between relevant bodies, through for example, regular liaison meetings. The issue of animal welfare enforcement is one of the key issues under consideration in the new Animal Welfare Bill which will consolidate and modernise domestic and captive animal welfare legislation.

Secondary information