VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Pets: Animal Welfare

Asked by Andrew RosindellReform UKDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural AffairsTabled Answered 15 November 2024UIN 12373

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what meetings (a) he and (b) other Ministers in his Department have had with animal welfare charities to discuss (i) puppy and cat smuggling and (ii) a ban of electronic shock collars for dogs since 5 July 2024.

Answered by Daniel Zeichner

This Government was elected on a mandate to introduce the most ambitious plans to improve animal welfare in a generation.


As outlined in our manifesto we will end puppy smuggling. We will also be considering available evidence around the use of hand-controlled e-collars and their effects on the welfare of animals.

We are considering the most effective ways to deliver our commitments. Ministers will continue to meet with animal welfare charities to discuss their views on a range of issues.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim