MPs Raise Concerns About Sentience Bill Committee

Animal Sentience Committee

The Animal Welfare Act 2006 recognised animals could feel pain and suffering. The new reform means animals will also be recognised in law as sentient beings. This will be overseen by a team whose role will be to make sure Ministers are held accountable for welfare in government policy.

However, MPs representing rural constituencies are now expressing concerns. They feel the committee could do more harm that good when it comes to British farming.

Who Will Be On The Committee?

8 months on from the Action Plan For Animal Welfare, it's still unclear who will sit on the new committee , or what their powers will be. MPs and rural campaigners fear the committee could be taken over by animal rights extremists, rather than animal welfare experts.

MPs Are Concerned

Richard Drax, MP for South Dorset, spoke in the Commons this week, calling the Bill a "Trojan horse for those who have no understanding and sadly, in some cases, despise the countryside and all that goes on in it".

Welfare Experts Should Drive Welfare Policy

Attempts have been made to ensure the committee is only made up of genuine experts in animal welfare. These amendments have been rejected by the government.

Preloved enthusiastically welcome the Sentience Bill. But we do share the MPs concerns. We feel acommittee to oversee animal welfare should consist of animal welfare experts.

The Bill is due for a second reading for further review at a later date.