This week I attended an RSPCA ‘future of animal welfare’ event at the House of Commons, to better understand how to work together for animal welfare ahead of the next General Election.

The RSPCA is asking the Government to ensure it passes the legislation it committed to, which was included in the recently dropped Kept Animals Bill, on primates as pets, live exports, puppy smuggling and Livestock Worrying.

At the event, the RSPCA and I also discussed the need for strengthening dog breeding laws, ensuring animal welfare is protected in trade agreements, strengthening protections for wild animals and calling for animal welfare to be taught in schools.

As the RSPCA approaches its landmark 200th year, I’m proud to continue to show my support for the incredible work they do. I will be doing my bit to encourage the Government to commit to providing clear plans to improve animal welfare, an issue which is important to so many of you across Lancaster & Fleetwood.

The coming years will be a pivotal moment for animal welfare in the UK and I am keen to support the RSPCA with getting their policy asks recognised across the House of Commons, which will make this animal-loving country an even kinder place.

Commitments the RSPCA want to see from the Government include: phasing out the use of animals in experiments, a high welfare food strategy, reform of the dangerous dogs act, animal welfare taught on the school curriculum, preventing puppy smuggling and more.

Harriet Main, public affairs manager at the RSPCA, added: “We’re really pleased that Cat Smith MP attended our drop-in event to find out how she can support the RSPCA in their mission to progress animal welfare standards as well as providing information to her constituents. It was wonderful to see so many influential and eager to help faces at our event.

“There have been many legislative achievements in improving animal welfare over the last few years, but recently there have also been some major backslides. The Government published the Action plan for Animal Welfare in 2021 but many of the actions are either yet to be completed or have been abandoned altogether.

“Animals deserve leaders that will stand up for them, and we are hopeful the MP’s who attended our event today will help us to put animal welfare back on the agenda as a priority.

“Our yearly survey results show people are most concerned about dog breeding practices, puppy smuggling and protecting wildlife and they look increasingly to the Government to solve these issues. The dropping of the Kept Animals Bill, has created great uncertainty as to when legislation will be introduced to improve animal welfare.

It was wonderful to hear about their plans to deliver a better world for animals. I know that our area is full of animal lovers, me being one of them! I’m so pleased that I get to share these vital messages from the RSPCA, with you all.

To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit: www.rspca.org.uk/give