Biggest animal welfare reform for a century

Margaret Beckett, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, hailed the Government's Animal Welfare Bill as the biggest animal welfare reform for a century.

Mrs Beckett said:

"The Bill introduces a positive duty to ensure the welfare of companion animals. This means that their care no longer lags behind the protection we already give to farmed animals.

"For the first time, there will be powers to act before a pet suffers

- a radical change as now it can take up to 25 visits by RSPCA inspectors before enough evidence is gathered to prove animal cruelty.

"There will also be increases in the penalties available for the most serious offences. Those convicted of cruelty and animal fighting will face a quadrupling of the maximum fine to £20,000; or up to 51 weeks imprisonment; or both."

Mrs Beckett acknowledged the substantial contributions made by:

* members of the public, who responded in large numbers to a consultation in 2002;

* stakeholders from across society who have helped Defra refine the policy and improve the drafting of the Bill; and

* the House of Commons' Select Committee for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs who had carried out pre-legislative scrutiny on the Bill.

Mrs Beckett added: "I am pleased with the positive reaction to this Bill which is designed to safeguard the welfare of companion animals who give so much pleasure to millions." The Bill - which will have its Second Reading in Parliament today in a debate opened by the Secretary of State - will also:

* Simplify animal welfare legislation for enforcers and animal keepers; and

* Extend the power to make secondary legislation and bring current licensing powers into a one-stop shop.

The Animal Welfare Bill applies to England and Wales.