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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 23rd January 2012
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EU Welfare Strategy draws fire from RSPCA
Charity sends objections to Agriculture Minister

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has criticised the European Commission's recently published four-year Animal Welfare Strategy, arguing that it falls 'far short' of adequately delivering 'long overdue' laws and processes and ignores a number of species.

The 'EU Strategy for the Protection and Welfare of Animals 2012-2015' was designed to replace a patchwork of animal welfare legislation passed over the last thirty years. Due to competing political priorities, this legislation was often developed in response to immediate contingencies. As a result, it was sometimes detailed and specific to sectors but was frequently sporadic in coverage.

In an official statement, RSPCA Director of Communications David Bowles said "While there are some good things about this strategy, many species of animals are ignored and it falls far short of properly delivering the laws and progress we think are already long overdue.”


"For instance, no reference is made as to how the commission will overcome the huge challenges to enforce EU wide bans on intensive systems such as the barren battery cage or the upcoming ban on sow stalls. There is also no mention of any new legislation to improve the welfare of dairy cows; to encourage funding of alternatives to the use of animals in research; or to improve the welfare of dogs traded in Europe after quarantine rules were relaxed.

"If the EU really wants to make a difference to animal welfare in the EU in the next five years it needs a strategy that deals with all animals, and ensures laws are effective and not just pieces of paper. It needs a strategy which recognises the links between good animal welfare, good animal health and improving the environment.”

"This strategy just does not go far enough. We have written to agriculture minister Jim Paice to express our dismay and hope he will take our message to the EC."


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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. 

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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.