Blue Cross welcomes animal cruelty sentencing bill

Poorly white and tan kitten on green blanket
Rupert the kitten needed help from Blue Cross to find a loving home after he was kicked and abandoned

Blue Cross is pleased that legislation to increase prison sentences for animal cruelty crimes has today (Wednesday 5 February) been re-introduced.

Becky Thwaites, Head of Public Affairs at Blue Cross, said: “Blue Cross welcomes the introduction of the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill by Chris Loder MP. 

“We are a strong supporter of the Bill as we believe sentences for animal cruelty offences are currently far too lenient and do not provide an adequate deterrent to anybody who decides to abuse or maltreat animals. 

“We will be supporting the Bill as it goes through Parliament and hope that politicians of all parties can come together and support this important Bill.”

The Second Reading of the Bill has been scheduled for Friday 12 June. If enacted, the law will increase the maximum custodial sentence for animal welfare offences from six months to five years behind bars. Blue Cross animal welfare teams offer a safe space and rehabilitation to animals who have suffered as a result of cruelty, and we welcome measures being taken to prevent this horrendous crime from taking place.

— Page last updated 14/12/2021