§ Sir Sydney ChapmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make a statement about the progress of her review of the European Convention for the Protection of Pet Animals; and for how long representations may be made to her. [3711]
§ Mr. MorleyResponsibility for the European Convention was passed from the Home Office to this Department on 8 June. I will be happy to receive representatives from the hon. Gentleman and others about this new element in our responsibilities for animal welfare.
§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make a statement on the measures she is taking to improve animal welfare. [3867]
§ Mr. MorleyThis Government are committed to high animal welfare standards, not only in the UK but also on an EU wide basis. High welfare standards are best achieved through effective Community-wide legislation and enforcement. We will continue to work towards the delivery of positive change through a range of UK, European Union and Council of Europe measures designed to improve welfare conditions for all animals, following the transfer of certain animal welfare responsibilities from the Home Office.