§ 58. Mrs. Shieldsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he is taking to seek to combat the incidence of the maltreatment of animals used as pets.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggThere is already a substantial body of law which provides for the welfare of pet animals. The principal legislation is the Protection of Animals Act 1911 under which it is an offence to cause (or being the owner, permit to be caused) any unnecessary suffering to any domestic or captive animal. We believe that the existing legislation provides an adequate and appropriate remedy for abuse of pet animals, however it may be caused.