David Sumberg MEP
Date:
07\05\2002
ANIMAL CRUELTY LAW NEEDS REVAMP
North West Euro MP David Sumberg is writing to the Home Office calling for a tightening in the law governing animal cruelty.
Mr Sumberg is making the move following shocking figures which revealed the RSPCA is now dealing with 240 cases of cruelty a week in the North West. In all 22,000 animals were rescued by the RSPCA in the region last year with a further 237 people convicted for neglecting or abusing their pet.
“These figures are distressing and something clearly needs to be done to tackle what is a profound problem,” said Mr Sumberg. “The Home Office is looking at new legislation and the RSPCA has submitted a comprehensive report to the Government which I broadly support. In particular I fully back its suggested five point ‘duty of care’ for captive and domestic animals which sets out fair and clear standards for owners. The RSPCA's 'duty of care' is:
FREEDOM FROM HUNGER AND THIRST
- by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour.
FREEDOM FROM DISCOMFORT
- by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area.
FREEDOM FROM PAIN, INJURY OR DISEASE
- by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment.
FREEDOM TO EXPRESS NORMAL BEHAVIOUR
- by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal’s own kind.
FREEDOM FROM FEAR AND DISTRESS
- by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering.
Mr Sumberg said the law also needed to allow the RSPCA’s officers to act earlier in cases of suffering, instead of having to wait for a complaint to be made.
“Presently the RSPCA can’t act until a complaint has been made that the animal is unwell, injured or even dead. But organisations like The Health and Safety Executive don’t have to wait for a complaint to be made before it can investigate a case. The same should apply to the RSPCA.”
The RSPCA’s figures were released in a week when a terrier was hurled into a canal in Chester with a brick wrapped round its neck. The animal was found drowned by a member of the public.
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