Badger Baiting
A number of constituents have contacted me about the protection of badgers. Originally banned in 1835 under the Cruelty to Animals Act, badger baiting continues to be an offence under the Protection of Badgers Act (1992) and must be reported to the police and BadgerTrust immediately. Badger baiting is a gruesome experience for both badgers and dogs and I […]
Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill
I have had a number of constituents contact me about hunting trophies. The Government made a manifesto commitment to ban the import of hunting trophies from endangered animals. I recognise that this is an issue that the public feel very strongly about, and over 85% of responses to our consultation supported further action. In the […]
Plastic Target
I have been contacted by many constituents on the issue of a plastic target, particularly in relation to the Big Plastic Count – the UK’s biggest investigation into household plastic waste. The Government’s target is to eliminate all avoidable plastic waste throughout the life of the 25 Year Environment Plan, but for the most problematic […]
Snares
Many constituents have got in touch with me with their concerns about the use of Snares. The management of predators plays an important role in supporting the recovery of some of our most vulnerable species but I appreciate the depth of concern about this issue. Laws are in place around the use of snares to […]
Prohibition of Catapults
A number of constituents have been contacting me about catapults and their wish for them to be excluded as prohibited weapons so as to prevent animal suffering. This is a disturbing and growing phenomenon. In addition to causing animal suffering, it is, as we now know, an indicator of what those perpetrators may go on […]
Pigs confined in metal cages – British Farming
Many of my constituents have contacted me regarding the confinement of pigs in metal cages on British farms. The UK has a significant outdoor pig sector with 40% of the national sow breeding herd farrowing freely on outdoor units with no option for confinement. Defra’s 2018 statutory welfare code of practice for pigs confirms that […]
Criminal Justice Bill – Abortion
A number of constituents have got in touch with me asking me to add my name to amendment NC15 to the Criminal Justice Bill that will lower the abortion time limit to 22 weeks. Abortion is an incredibly emotive issue, and I understand the strength of feeling on all sides. The Crown Prosecution Service has also acknowledged […]
WaterAid
I have been contacted by many of my constituents about the charity WaterAid, urging me to attend their drop-in sessions and learn more about their work. First and foremost, I can assure my constituents that the UK Government is conscious that safe water and adequate sanitation are basic human needs. I also want to emphasise […]
Digital Exclusion
A number of constituents have contacted me about the upcoming digital exclusion debate. This is an area that I take a great interest in and hope to be able to find time to attend the debate. Digital skills are vital at all levels, from the basics people need to make the most of online connectivity, […]
Breast Cancer
A number of constituents have contacted me about Breast Cancer and particularly the work of the charity Breast Cancer Now. The Government is committed to ensuring that breast cancer is diagnosed as early as is possible. As part of the 2021 Spending Review, £2.3 billion was allocated to improve diagnostic capacity over the following three years. Through this […]