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Written question asked by Andrew Rosindell (Conservative) on Thursday, 17 April 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 23 April 2025. It was answered by Daniel Zeichner (Labour) on Wednesday, 30 April 2025 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.


RSPCA: Powers

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of granting RSPCA investigators statutory powers to gather evidence.

Answer

There are no current plans to expand statutory powers in the Animal Welfare Act 2006 to include RSPCA inspectors. The RSPCA has strong working relationships with the Police and Local Authorities who support them in protecting animals where needed.

The Government recognises the valuable work the RSPCA does to improve the welfare of animals and remains committed to working with the RSPCA, and other organisations involved in enforcement activities, so that our high animal welfare standards are maintained and offenders are subject to appropriate penalties.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
45479
Session
2024-26
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Powers RSPCA
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk