§ Phil SawfordTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the minimum standards for kennels at greyhound tracks are. [165486]
§ Mr. BradshawThe Government do not currently set minimum standards for kennelling at greyhound tracks but under the Protection of Animals Act 1911 it is an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to a domestic or captive animal. This offence covers welfare at racetracks. It is proposed to consolidate and modernise the legislation relating to domestic and captive animals and a draft Bill is currently being prepared.
§ Mr. BellinghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what minimum standards breeders of greyhounds must meet. [166752]
§ Mr. BradshawCommercial greyhound breeding is covered by the Breeding of Dogs Acts 1973 and 1991, and the Breeding and Sale of Dogs Welfare Act 1999. There is also protection under the Protection of Animals Act 1911, under which it is an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to a domestic or captive animal. It is proposed to consolidate and modernise this legislation and a draft Bill is currently being prepared.