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Government reintroduces Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill
The Bill will increase the maximum sentence for animal abusers to five years.

Move follows public consultation showing support for tougher prison sentences

The Government announced on Tuesday (15 October) that it has reintroduced a Bill that means animal abusers could face up to five years in prison.


The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill has been reintroduced to the House of Commons following a public consultation last year. Responses to the consultation showed more than 70 per cent of people supported proposals for tougher prison sentences.


The move will be a significant increase from the current maximum sentence of six months, making it one of the toughest sanctions in Europe.

“I am committed to improving animal welfare in this country and the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill, which will increase the maximum sentencing to five years in prison, sends a clear message that animal cruelty will not be tolerated," said animal welfare minister Zac Goldsmith.

“This step builds on a series of actions this government has taken to protect animals, including a ban on third-party puppy and kitten sales, banning the use of wild animals in circuses, and taking steps both to end keeping primates as pets and the live export of animals.”

The government announced in summer 2018 that the issue of animal sentencing and animal sentience will be split. This is line with the advice for the House of Commons EFRA Select Committee.

Ministers are now considering the right legislative vehicle for sentience and details will follow in due course. 

 

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.