Since I submitted my written question to the the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, asking for the reintroduction of the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill, there has been a major update.

The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill has been reintroduced by a backbench MP, Chris Loder, and it has received the backing of the Government.

I hope that this time the Bill manages to complete its passage through Parliament and into law.

I can assure you that I will continue to support the introduction of tougher sentences for perpetrators of animal cruelty, and the passage of the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill.