HL Deb 08 May 2001 vol 625 cc177-8WA
Lord Patten

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they have plans to review the legislation in relation to the animal welfare responsibilities of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in the light of the current foot and mouth outbreak; and if not why not. [HL2047]

Lord Bassam of Brighton

The Government have no plans to review the position of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA). The RSPCA is a voluntary organisation. It is not a statutory body and has no powers or responsibilities laid down in legislation.