Sponsored by Aphra Brandreth, Conservative MP for Chester South and Eddisbury, the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Bill is the second attempt to amend the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953, with today marking a significant milestone in the Bill's journey following years of NFU lobbying.
The Bill would give police greater powers to crack down on irresponsible dog owners whose pets attack livestock and follows previous attempts in the past few years to pass similar legislation.
Government plans to strengthen the law on livestock worrying were stalled when the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill was withdrawn in 2023. More than 20,000 people signed an NFU petition, calling on newly elected PCCs (Police and Crime Commissioners) to implement changes to legislation to prevent dog attacks on farm animals.
鈥�We now look forward to seeing the bill progress further through Parliament and we will be encouraging Peers to support its passage through the House of Lords.鈥�
NFU Vice-president Rachel Hallos
Former Defra Secretary Th茅r猫se Coffey then brought forward a private member鈥檚 Bill which received full backing from the government and cross-party support. However, the general election then halted its progress.
Enjoying the countryside responsibly
皇家华人welcomes the legislation which would give police more powers to seize dogs after serious incidents, greater powers of entry, and the ability to take evidence samples from livestock and dogs to assist their investigations.
NFU Vice-president Rachel Hallos said it was 鈥渇antastic鈥� to see the Bill pass its third reading, adding that it is 鈥渆ssential the law keeps pace鈥� as livestock worrying continues to cause serious harm to animals and takes its toll on farmers.聽
She added: 鈥溁始一薶as long campaigned for tougher legislation on livestock worrying, which will give police better powers to investigate and prosecute attacks and, importantly, send a clear message that responsible dog ownership is crucial in the countryside.
鈥淲e鈥檙e incredibly grateful to Aphra Brandreth MP for championing this issue and helping bring the voices of farmers into Parliament. Her work has been instrumental in moving this important legislation forward.
鈥淲e now look forward to seeing the Bill progress further through Parliament and we will be encouraging Peers to support its passage through the House of Lords.鈥�
