HL Deb 07 July 2003 vol 651 cc17-8WA
Lord Laird

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What plans have they to improve welfare for greyhounds. [HL3582]

Lord Whitty

This department has begun a review of animal welfare legislation relating to captive, domestic and sporting animals. The intention is to update and consolidate the legislation into one animal welfare Act. The new legislation would be pro-active and would allow action to be taken before an animal suffers if it is not being given appropriate care. Areas for consideration under the new Bill include licensing controls to improve the welfare of racing greyhounds. My department has undertaken a public consultation and run a series of stakeholder meetings to consider the possible contents of the Bill. We aim to have a public consultation on a draft Bill early next year.