Thames Water
Following reports about Thames Water, I have been assured that the Government and the water regulator, Ofwat, take the financial resilience of the water sector very seriously.
Ofwat is the independent economic regulator for the sector with responsibility for its financial resilience. I am confident that Ofwat is working closely with all water companies, including Thames Water, and ensuring that action is taken when financial resilience needs to be improved.
In a statement in June 2023, Ofwat said:
“We have been clear that Thames Water has significant issues to address – their environmental record and leakage performance, for example, are poor. Alongside the turnaround of their operational performance, they need to improve their financial resilience too.
“But that is all in the context of a company that has strong liquidity – it recently received an additional £500 million from shareholders and has £4.4bn of cash and committed funding.
“Overall, the sector is continuing to attract international capital and is especially attractive to long term investors such as pension funds. Indeed, there has been an additional equity injection of around £2bn since 2020, with companies acting to strengthen their financial position.”
I am assured that the water sector as a whole is financially resilient, as detailed in Ofwat’s latest annual financial resilience report. With regards to individual companies, it is the role of any responsible government to prepare for a range of scenarios across our regulated industries, including the water sector.
Since privatisation in 1989, water companies have invested £200 billion in the water industry. This country would not have seen this level of investment if the water industry were in public ownership and, since privatisation, we have had world class drinking water.
Further, in 2017 the Environment Agency required all water companies to start monitoring storm overflow activity using event duration monitoring (EDM) to better manage and regulate storm discharge and storm overflows. EDM enables improvements to be identified, so that we can better manage and uphold the quality of our waters.
As a member of the EFRA Select Committee and having attended one of the EAC’s (Environment Audit Committee) meetings on water quality, I have asked after hard evidence about Thames Water, and have heard nothing to suggest renationalisation would be a solution to the company’s current issues.
May 2024
Pesticide Regulation
Selaine’s response:
My ministerial colleagues and I share the public’s high regard for the UK’s environmental protections. This is especially important here in North Devon, where it is important that we maintain good quality farmland and support our farmers to continue producing their high standards of local produce.
Pesticides are strictly regulated, and their use is authorised only if a scientific risk assessment shows that there will be no harmful effects on human health and no unacceptable effects on the environment. I know that the UK is committed to meeting a global target to reduce the overall risks from pesticides and highly hazardous chemicals by at least half by 2030, as agreed at COP15 as part of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
In 2021, the Government held a consultation on the draft National Action Plan (NAP) for the Sustainable Use of Pesticides. This aims to minimise the risks and impacts of pesticides to human health and the environment. The draft NAP aims to increase uptake of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and sustainable crop protection.
Under IPM, farming systems minimise the need for pesticides and use alternative approaches wherever possible. It emphasises crop health with the least possible disruption to agro-ecosystems and encourages natural pest control mechanisms, which play a role in supporting and enhancing biodiversity, while improving soil health and water quality. Given the likelihood of run off from farmland into our water systems in North Devon, it is so essential that we support farmers to maintain healthy soil, which in turn will protect our beaches and bathing waters.
Further, IPM is being used as a key tool for businesses facing the challenges of pesticide resistance, removal of pesticides from the market, and changing pest pressures due to climate change. All professional users of pesticides are encouraged to follow the principles of IPM. This is supported through formal training requirements, guidance, conditions of pesticide use and industry assurance schemes. Ministers commissioned a package of research projects that will bring together scientific evidence underpinning IPM and to look at ways of further encouraging its uptake. This work will support farmers’ access to the most effective IPM tools available.
Having frequently spoken with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), I know that they have recently published research on the development of a Pesticide Load Indicator which combines data on pesticide use with information on environmental toxicity and fate, and I look forward to seeing further action taken to support a healthy environment based off these findings.
May 2024
Brachycephalic Animals
Selaine’s response:
The UK has some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world and it shares the highest ranking on the animal protection index and the highest in the G7. I would like to assure you that the Government takes the issue of low welfare and illegal supply of animals very seriously. Significant steps have been taken to improve and update the laws in England to crack down on unscrupulous breeders who breed purely for financial greed at the expense of animal welfare.
I introduced the Animal Welfare (Import of Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) Bill to tackle part of this problem however, genetic mutilations such as Brachycephalic is unfortunately, not in the scope of my Animal Welfare Bill. I have been working closely with Defra and organisations such as the BVA to tackle this important issue and I was able to welcome Bruce from the Dogs Trust, a 10 month old rescued French Bulldog to Westminster and spread awareness about Brachycephalic Animals in my speech and I know that my Honourable Friend for Penrith and The Border is doing fantastic work in this area as well.
Under current regulations, licensed breeders are prohibited from breeding dogs if it can be reasonably expected that on the basis of their genotype, phenotype or health, this would lead to welfare problems for the mother or the puppies. I know that this applies in the case of brachycephalic breeds. Both licensed and unlicensed animal breeders are required under the Animal Welfare Act to protect the animals involved in breeding from harm and to provide for their welfare in line with good practice. A breach of these provisions may lead to imprisonment, a fine, or both.
This year, I was invited by the Kennel Club to attend Crufts and it was great to see behind the scenes about what is being done to help Brachycephalic Animals. It was reassuring to hear about their Respiratory Function Grading (RFG) Scheme for brachycephalic dogs such as French Bulldogs, Pugs and Bulldogs. It was great to meet Dr Jane Ludlow, the vet who devised the scheme which assesses dogs with a stethoscope, the dog exercises for 3 minutes, and it is then repeated. We saw the test first hand which is quick and straightforward and assigns an RFG grade to each dog, those with the lowest grades should not breed.
This is because far too many brachycephalic dogs have Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) which can chronically impair the ability of the dog to breathe normally and carry out everyday tasks. All the dogs at Crufts had the option of being tested, and those that win all have been to ensure that the breed standard retains high health standards.
I was particularly interested in this area as on my visit to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home so many flat faced dogs needed rehoming, and many of them also required very invasive and expensive surgery to address their breathing difficulties. There are so many considerations when buying a new dog, but if you are looking at one of these very popular, flat faced breeds, do ask more about their RFG grade.
I do hope that by highlighting this issue, we can ensure more pet owners ask questions about the health of the parents of their future pet. The Petfished campaign provides a list of red flags for buyers to look out for when searching for a pet online. More information can be found here: https://getyourpetsafely.campaign.gov.uk/
May 2024
Save British Countryside Campaign
Selaine’s response:
I am assured that the Government is committed to reaching its target to eliminate the UK's contribution to climate change by achieving net zero by 2050. As a CPRE rooftop solar champion, I believe that solar power is a key building block in ensuring that we meet this target. However as a member of the EFRA Select Committee, I do recognise that, in some cases, the deployment of large scale solar farms may impact the rural environment, which I know is so important to the residents of North Devon.
Government guidance encourages local planning authorities to focus on using previously developed land and non agricultural land for large scale solar farm development, so long as the land is not of high environmental value. Given that many solar farms are temporary structures, local planning authorities are also advised to ensure that land is restored to its previous use.
The National Planning Policy Framework, which sets out guidance to local planning authorities in England, is clear that: "When located in the Green Belt, elements of many renewable energy projects will comprise inappropriate development." Projects can only proceed in very special circumstances, which may include the wider environmental benefits associated with increased production of energy from renewable sources.
More generally, I would like to assure constituents that I will follow any developments and further announcements from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on this matter closely.
May 2024
Water Pollution: Agriculture
Selaine’s response:
The Government and I are committed to the environment. Although farming activities are a main source of water pollution in the UK, the Government is working with farmers to reduce pollution and encourage better practices and reforms. Through the Environmental Improvement Plan and the Plan for Water, ministers are committed to review farming regulations regularly to ensure they are fit for purpose.
The Environment Act 2021 includes a target to reduce nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment pollution from agriculture into the water environment by at least 40 per cent by 2038, compared to a 2018 baseline. Farms are also subject to robust regulations on agricultural activities which could cause environmental harm, including through the Farming Rules for Water and the Nitrate Pollution Prevention Regulations. These set out clear standards and a baseline with which farmers must comply.
In the Plan for Water, the Government announced £200 million worth of funding through the Slurry Infrastructure Grant for new covered slurry stores in high priority areas of England, such as protected nature sites. Ministers will also enable the use of on farm technologies for better use of slurry, including slurry separators, and help farmers store, transport, and apply their organic nutrient through the Farm Equipment and Technology Fund. This will involve investing £25m to drive innovation to help farmers manage plant and soil nutrients.
The Sustainable Farming Incentive, Countryside Stewardship (CS) and Landscape Recovery schemes will provide farmers with funding support for regenerative measures that reduce water pollution and improve biodiversity. CS funding is improving farm infrastructure, such as roofing for manure stores to keep dirty water and effluent separate from rainwater and prevent contamination.
Finally, the Government has also made extra funding available to the Environment Agency for 50 new farm inspectors to ensure that agricultural diffuse pollution regulations are followed, which enabled them to conduct 4,000 farm inspections in the last fiscal year. I am assured that if the Environment Agency finds pollution or significant risk of pollution, it will not hesitate to take further action.
Given the importance of beaches and coastlines to our communities in North Devon, I feel strongly about ensuring the quality of our water is managed appropriately. I have been pleased to visit local farms taking advantage of the Slurry Infrastructure Grant Scheme to ensure their farms are operating to the highest environmental standards.
May 2024
Protect Literary Landscapes
Selaine’s response:
The landscapes that inspired some of the country’s most treasured works of literature should absolutely be protected for future generations to enjoy. It is important that our planning system protects national landscapes and heritage assets, something that my ministerial colleagues and I are committed to.
The National Planning Policy Framework does offer protection to literary landscapes, although they are not subject to a separate designation within the planning system. The framework sets out guidance for local authorities in England, making clear that local authorities’ planning policies should conserve and enhance the natural, built, and historic environment, while recognising the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside.
I am pleased that the Government is introducing changes to the planning system to incentivise more local authorities to adopt and update local plans, and provide opportunities for local people to shape their surroundings. Crucially, local plans can protect the important landscapes communities cherish and direct homes to the places local people prefer.
The Levelling Up and Regeneration Act increases the weight given to local plans when making decisions on applications, so that there must be strong reasons to override the plan. The legislation will also help to foster better environmental outcomes, with a new requirement to prepare Environmental Outcomes Reports to assess the potential environmental effects of relevant plans and major projects.
I believe that, together, these measures will help protect our beautiful countryside and landscapes for decades to come.
May 2024
Fur Trade
Selaine’s response:
Although our country has a proud history on animal welfare, my ministerial colleagues and I know that more can be done and are committed to ensuring these high standards are upheld. As an independent nation, we can now re-examine our animal welfare laws, including those relating to the cruel practise of farming animals for their fur.
Fur farming has been banned in the UK for 20 years. Legislation prohibits the keeping and breeding of animals primarily for slaughter for the value of their fur, and there are restrictions on some skin and fur products that may never be legally imported into the UK. These include fur and products from cats and dogs, seal skins and products from commercial hunts. The UK is also bound both by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), which imposes controls on fur from endangered species, and international humane trapping standards, which prevents the import of fur from wild animals caught using inhumane methods.
Fur cannot be farmed in the UK, but it is still possible to import and sell other types of fur from abroad. It is my understanding that the Animal Welfare Committee has been considering the issue of responsible sourcing in the fur industry, including the animal welfare standards and safeguards that apply to fur imported to this country. I will continue to follow this issue closely.
Nonetheless, there is considerable support for banning all imports on fur products. I am therefore pleased that a call for evidence has been carried out by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) (2021) on the fur trade in Great Britain, to assess views on animal welfare and on the social and economic impacts associated with the trade. This call spanned both British, Scottish and Welsh governments, and garnered around 30,000 responses from businesses, representative bodies and individuals. This is a clear reflection of UK attitudes towards animals and the strength of feeling on the issue of fur trade.
Defra officials are still analysing these responses with diligence, using them to build an evidence base on the fur sector which will go on to inform future government policy in reflection of UK attitudes. I look forward to reading the results of this study, which will be published soon.
April 2024
Plastic Target
Selaine’s response:
The Resources and Waste Strategy for England sets out the Government’s plans to reduce, reuse, and recycle more plastic and Ministers have committed to work towards all plastic packaging on the market being recyclable or reusable by 2025.
Significant progress has already been made to address plastic pollution, including a ban on microbeads and restricting the supply of plastic straws, plastic drink stirrers, and plastic stemmed cotton buds. The use of single use carrier bags in supermarkets has reduced by over 98 per cent.
Further, restrictions on a range of single use plastics, including plastic plates, trays, bowls, cutlery, balloon sticks and certain types of polystyrene cups and food containers have now come into force. I understand that England uses 2.7 billion items of single use cutlery and over 700 million single use plates per year, but only 10 per cent are recycled. This new ban is the next step in cracking down on harmful plastic waste.
Through the Environment Act 2021, the Government has set a target to halve residual waste by 2042. This refers to waste that is sent to landfill, put through incineration, or used in energy recovery in the UK or overseas. This is an intentionally broad target, which will include the most environmentally harmful materials like plastics, rather than banning a single type of material and risk producers moving to a different, more harmful material.
As a coastal MP, I know how important it is to also ensure we reduce plastic waste in our oceans and beaches. Last year, I led a Westminster Hall Debate on Reducing Plastic in our Oceans and credited the efforts of The Ocean Cleanup in their aim to remove 90% of floating plastic by 2040.
This year I have continued to support local initiatives, such as Plastic Free North Devon, throughout their series of beach cleans available for public participation.
On April 17 2024, I hosted The Big Plastic Count Youth Empowerment Day in Parliament, for school pupils to learn about the importance of the Global Plastics Treaty and to raise awareness for the ongoing work of the organisation.
Plastic pollution is an ongoing issue, but I will continue to prioritise campaigning for our environment. I am pleased that there are many local organisations within my constituency that share this view, and are constantly involving the public in collaborative environmental action events.
April 2024
Hedgerows
Selaine’s response:
85 MPs and peers are CPRE Hedgerow Heroes, and I am proudly one of them continuously calling on the Government to commit to significant hedgerow planting and restoration.
Hedgerows are important ecological building blocks in our farmed landscape, providing distinctive character to our countryside and crucial habitats and food for wildlife. Hedgerows can store carbon, improve local air quality and benefit the rural economy by boosting job creation for hedgerow planting and management in local communities.
Protection of hedgerows is a key component of the Government’s Environmental Land Management Schemes. Through the Countryside Stewardship schemes, Ministers are supporting farmers to maintain and restore over 10,000km of existing hedgerows while planting an additional 4,000km across the nation. I understand that as of January 2024, there were around 35,000 Countryside Stewardship agreements.
Further, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs' (Defra's) new Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) hedgerow standard will pay farmers to assess the condition of hedgerows and manage them in a way that will work for wildlife and improve biodiversity. I am pleased that SFI payments were increased by ten per cent at the beginning of this year.
I am aware that cross compliance rules ended at the end of last year. This is because gaps between cross compliance rules and regulatory requirements are already covered by existing and ongoing strong domestic legal framework, such as through generalised provisions in Farming Rules for Water and the Water Resources Act, guidance like the Code of Practice for the use of Plant Protection Products, and standards in the Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme.
I led a Westminster Hall debate on ‘Legal Protections of Hedgerows’ and I was glad to hear Minister for Nature, Rebecca Pow’s positive response about the Department’s plans to commit to new legislation on protecting hedgerows in due course when parliamentary time allows.
You can watch my full speech on the legal protection of Hedgerows here: https://www.selainesaxby.org.uk/legal-protection-hedgerows-24th-january…
I am pleased to update that, following a Defra consultation on maintaining and improving existing protections, legislation to protect hedgerows has been laid in both Houses of Parliament as of April 17 2024. If approved, the new legislation on ‘the Management of Hedgerows (England) Regulations 2024’ will put baseline hedgerow management practises into law, providing a consistent approach across all people operating on agricultural land.
Measures laid out by this legislation will include a two metre ‘buffer strip’ from the centre of hedgerows with no cultivation or application of pesticides or fertilisers, and a hedge cutting ban between 1 March and 31 August to protect nesting birds.
The regulations will support the efforts of many farmers already carrying out vital work to protect hedgerows, providing important ecological benefits including wildlife habitats, slowing soil erosion and water run off, supporting crop pollinators and absorbing carbon.
If agreed by Parliament, the regulations will come into force immediately. More information can be found on the government website at https://defrafarming.blog.gov.uk/2024/04/16/laying-the-hedgerow-regulations/
April 2024
Global Ocean Treaty
Selaine’s response:
The UK is a global leader in protecting our seas, the ocean and marine life, working with counterparts both in the UK and overseas. Almost 200 countries agreed a deal to protect nature at COP15 in December 2022, including a global commitment to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030 and to protect 30 per cent of land and oceans by 2030. The UK announced nearly £30 million to support developing countries to deliver the "30 by 30" target and, in March 2023, UN Member States agreed the High Seas Treaty, which aims to place 30% of the seas into protected areas by 2030.
Further, 374 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) protect 38% of UK waters, which are all subject to planning and licensing regimes to ensure they are protected from harmful activities. The Government’s Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) sets the country on a path to deliver an improved marine environment and halt the decline in biodiversity which benefits us all. As set out in the EIP, the Government has a statutory target to have 70% of designated features in MPAs in a favourable condition by 2042, with the remainder in a recovering condition.
The UK was pleased to be among the first signatories to the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement when it opened for signature at the UN on 20 September 2023 and the Agreement was laid before Parliament for scrutiny on 16 October 2023. Work is in hand on the legislation and other measures needed to translate the detailed and complex provisions of the Agreement into UK law before the Agreement can be ratified, which will be taken forward when parliamentary time allows.
I am aware that my Parliamentary colleague Kevin Foster has tabled a Private Member's Bill titled "The Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity (Ratification of Treaty) Bill", which, if passed, would enable the Government to swiftly ratify the Global Ocean Treaty in this Parliamentary session.
I signed the application for this, however because the debate is on a Thursday afternoon unfortunately, I will be unable to attend due to my commitments in the constituency. I am, however, in full support of Kevin Foster’s Bill, and I will follow its progress closely.
The first Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs) have come into force. These areas of the sea will benefit from the highest level of protection which will exclude all fishing, thus encouraging full recovery of marine ecosystems. For HPMAs to be successful, the Government will work with the fishing industry, other marine industries and sea users in designating, managing and monitoring them.
As a coastal MP, I understand the importance of protecting our seas and coastlines. Last year, I led a debate on ‘Reducing Plastic Pollution in our Oceans’ to raise awareness for the impact of plastic pollution. I called on the Government to push for limits on virgin plastic production and unnecessary plastic use at the UN Global Plastic Treaty negotiations and will continue to work alongside organisations such as The Ocean Cleanup, and Plastic Free North Devon, to support the health of our marine environments.
April 2024
Protection of Nests
Selaine’s response:
I share the desire to protect our precious birds and I know that the Government is committed to being the UK's greenest ever. I have and will continue to support RSPB’s campaigns to protect our bird population, like the Big Garden Bird Watch. In England and Wales, all wild birds’ nests, with some limited exceptions, are protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. This Act makes it an offence to destroy a nest while it is in use or being built. I understand that birds which habitually use the same nests, including white tailed eagles, ospreys and golden eagles, have their nests protected year round, even when not in use.
Through the 25 Year Environment Plan, Ministers are maintaining and extending key protections. The Environment Act 2021 includes a target to halt the decline of nature by 2030 and I would like to assure you that the Government is fully committed to this target. The Act also introduces measures that will strengthen our action for nature and lay the foundation for the Nature Recovery Network, a network of places that are richer in wildlife, more resilient to climate change and provide wider environmental benefits including carbon capture and recreation.
March 2024
Catapults
Selaine’s response:
I am aware that under the provisions in the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, The Wild Mammals (Protection) Act 1996 and Animal Welfare Act 2006, there are a range of offences around injuring and inflicting unnecessary suffering on wildlife and in the event that a member of the public believes that such an event has taken place, they are encouraged to report the matter to the police so they can investigate.
The misuse of catapults may also constitute anti social behaviour. The Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 already provides the police, local authorities and other local agencies with a range of flexible tools and powers that they can use to respond quickly and effectively to anti social behaviour.
However, I am aware that catapults do have some legitimate uses, for example when fishing and at present the Government considers that existing legislation provides the correct balance between protecting the public from the small number of individuals who misuse catapults, while also allowing the public to enjoy legitimate pastimes. As such, the Government does not have any plans to prevent the possession in public of catapults at this time, however, it continues to keep all relevant legislation under review in the interests of public safety.
March 2024
Ocean Protection
Selaine’s response:
The UK is a global leader in protecting our seas, the ocean and marine life, working with counterparts both in the UK and overseas.
Almost 200 countries agreed a deal to protect nature at COP15 in December 2022, including a global commitment to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030 and also to protect 30% of land and oceans by 2030 and the UK announced nearly £30 million to support developing countries to deliver the "30 by 30" target. In addition, in March 2023, UN Member States agreed the High Seas Treaty, which aims to place 30% of the seas into protected areas by 2030.
Further, 374 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) protect 38% of UK waters, which are all subject to planning and licensing regimes to ensure they are protected from harmful activities. The Government’s Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) sets the country on a path to deliver an improved marine environment and halt the decline in biodiversity which benefits us all. As set out in the EIP, the Government has a statutory target to have 70% of designated features in MPAs in a favourable condition by 2042, with the remainder in a recovering condition.
Finally, the first Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs) have come into force. These areas of the sea will benefit from the highest level of protection which will exclude all fishing, thus encouraging full recovery of marine ecosystems. For HPMAs to be successful, the Government will work with the fishing industry, other marine industries and sea users in designating, managing and monitoring them.
I am aware that at the 2022 United Nations Ocean Conference, the UK, US and Canada launched the Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing Action Alliance, which brings together state and non state actors to tackle the illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. Through committing to implement international agreements, promote active monitoring, control and surveillance, and encourage transparency and data sharing, this alliance is growing and has welcomed several new countries to its membership.
In addition, the Government has pledged funding to support marine protection, ocean research and activities to combat illegal fishing. These investments will bolster initiatives aimed at conserving our oceans and ensuring their long-term sustainability by allocating resources to these critical areas.
I attended the drop in event hosted by Kevin Foster MP about how the UK can ratify the Global Ocean Treaty on the 20th February and I hope to work alongside him to evolve the UK can rapidly ratify the Global Ocean Treaty.
February 2024
Electronic Cigarettes: Disposal
Selaine’s response:
I share concerns about disposable electronic cigarettes being littered in the streets of our towns and countryside. The scale of the waste of disposable vapes in the UK is shocking, with around five million disposable vapes thrown away every week. Many of the disposable vapes thrown away each week are not recycled properly and are instead littered or discarded with residual waste.
Following a public consultation last year on the Prime Minister's proposals to create the first smokefree generation and crack down on cheap and accessible disposable vapes, the Government has recently announced that disposable vapes will be banned in the UK. I also campaigned for this ban with the Environment APPG, so I welcome this announcement. This ambitious measure will be a powerful tool in support of the Government's efforts to crack down on waste and boost recycling.
Furthermore, there was overwhelming support among responses to the Government’s consultation for a disposable vape ban, with nearly 70% of parents, teachers, healthcare professionals and the general public supportive of the measure.
Regarding the waste of vapes, I am aware that retailers that sell over £100,000 of electrical equipment per year are obliged to provide in store takeback of electrical items, including vapes, under the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations. Smaller businesses can choose to contribute funds to the distributor takeback scheme instead to ensure vapes are recycled correctly.
Under these regulations, producers of electrical and electronic equipment, including vapes, are required to take financial responsibility for the collection, and proper treatment the products that they place on the market when those products become waste at household waste recycling centres or are returned to retailers. Consumers that wish to dispose of their old vapes can take them to their local authority household waste recycling centre. I am informed that all vapes that are deposited at household waste and recycling centres will be collected and treated.
Finally, while I understand that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs does not currently hold information on the potential risks to animals from exposure to disposable vapes, I know that it has commissioned research which will better understand both the market for, and impacts of, disposable vapes and associated cost inputs. I will continue to follow this issue closely.
February 2024
Pet Abduction
Selaine’s response:
I fully recognise the devastating impact that the theft of a pet can have on both the pet and families. In response to concerns about a perceived increase in pet theft during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) launched the Pet Theft Taskforce in May 2021. The taskforce’s findings and recommendations, published in September 2021, included the creation of a specific offence.
I fully support the Pet Abduction Bill, introduced by my colleague Anna Firth MP, and I hope to join the Bill committee to see this legislation through. This Bill would introduce a new criminal offence in relation to the theft of a dog or a cat. I know that the Government supported the Bill during its Second Reading, and I will support this Bill when it returns to the House for its Third Reading.
More widely, Defra has been making improvements to the cat and dog microchipping regime in England in line with the taskforce’s recommendations. This includes introducing legislation last year to extend compulsory microchipping to include cats, as well as dogs. This increases the likelihood of lost or stolen pets being reunited with their owner. In addition, police forces are working together to better coordinate and share best practice and advice on the steps owners can take to protect their pets.
January 2024
Live Animal Exports
Selaine’s response:
The UK has some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world which the Government continues to strengthen further.
My ministerial colleagues and I recognise that long journey times for slaughter and fattening pose welfare risks including stress, exhaustion and injury. I understand that the shortest direct to slaughter export journey from Great Britain to continental Europe in 2018 was a journey time of 18 hours. Most domestic journeys to slaughter in the UK are significantly shorter. In 2020, the Government carried out a consultation on ending live animal exports, and 87% of respondents agreed that livestock and horses should not be exported for slaughter and fattening.
Now that the UK is no longer in the European Union, the Government can end live animal exports, further strengthening animal welfare protections. The Animal Welfare (Livestock Exports) Bill delivers the Government’s manifesto commitment by banning the live export of cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and horses for slaughter and fattening. It will prevent unnecessary long export journeys, instead using shorter and less stressful domestic journeys. The Bill will ensure that animals are slaughtered domestically, in high welfare UK slaughterhouses and preventing the export to unknown and likely lower welfare slaughterhouse conditions. I recently contributed to a debate on the Animal Welfare (Live Exports) Bill, where I highlighted my support for the bill, whilst ensuring farmers were also supported within the legislation. These new rules will still allow live animal exports in other circumstances, for example for breeding and competitions, provided they are transported in line with legal requirements aimed at protecting their welfare.
While no animals have been exported for slaughter from Great Britain since the Government announced its intention to bring forward a ban in 2021, I know that this Bill makes this permanent. I am assured that this legislation reinforces the UK’s position as a world leader on animal welfare, boosting the value of British meat and helping to grow the economy.
I welcome that this Bill recently completed all stages in the House of Commons and has now progressed to the House of Lords.
January 2024
Animal Testing
Selaine’s response:
Animal research plays a vital role in providing safety information for potential new medicines. As a result of findings from animal studies, a large number of potential new drugs never get as far as being tested in humans. Some aspects of the toxicological assessment of new medicines cannot be adequately assessed in humans, and animal data will be the only kind available.
I would like to reassure you that the UK's rigorous regulatory system ensures that no animal testing or research takes place if a non-animal alternative exists that would achieve the scientific outcomes sought. The National Centre for the 3Rs (NC3Rs) is the UK’s leading scientific based organisation dedicated to replacing, refining, and reducing the use of animals in scientific research and testing. The NC3Rs supports the research community to use the latest science and technology to replace animal studies, providing new approaches for biomedical research, and avoiding the time and cost associated with animal models.
Since the NC3Rs was launched in 2004, the Government has invested £77 million in research towards developing new approaches to replace, reduce, and refine the use of animals in scientific procedures, and an additional £32 million through its CRACK IT programme for Small and Medium sized Enterprises and universities to work with the pharmaceutical and chemical industries on collaborative 3Rs projects that aim to generate commercial opportunities in this area.
Without animal testing it is highly likely that a large number of potentially dangerous new medicines would be tested in healthy volunteers and patients in clinical trials. This would be completely unacceptable. That said, I welcome the Government's commitment to the development of non-animal technologies. Such technologies have the potential to reduce the reliance on the use of animals, improve the efficiency of drug research and development, and deliver safer, cheaper, and more effective medicines to patients. Ministers have also stressed that they continue to actively support and fund the development and dissemination of techniques that replace, reduce, and refine the use of animals in research.
Establishments, such as MBR Acres, that either breed dogs for use in science elsewhere or conduct regulated procedures on dogs are required to provide care and accommodation to those dogs in line with the published code of practice for that purpose. Adherence to that code of practice, and to all other standard conditions applied to any establishment licence, is assessed by the regulator as part of its compliance assurance programme.
Establishments breeding, supplying, or using dogs in science are contributing to critical activities to protect human health and advance scientific progress. They are operating legally within a regulatory framework that requires licensure and assessment of their compliance.
January 2024
Fairness in the Farming Sector
Selaine’s response:
Thank you to everyone in North Devon who have sent in the ‘Fairness in the Farming Sector’ email. I would like to assure you that the Government is committed to working with businesses and organisations across the food supply chain, including farmers, manufacturing and distribution businesses and retailers, to ensure that we have a thriving food sector in the UK. I recently supported Dr Luke Evans’ ‘Buy British Button’ campaign which has brought significant changes to the sector, with Morrisons being the first supermarket to implement a ‘Buy British’ button online to support British farmers.
I am aware of the petition on Parliament’s website relating to the Grocery Supply Code of Practice. Regarding the Westminster Hall debate on the petition, which is currently scheduled to take place on 22 January, I plan to attend this debate, parliamentary business permitting.
I welcome that representatives from the whole food supply chain came together at Downing Street in May 2023 to identify ways in which the Government and industry can work together to boost growth, drive innovation, and improve sustainability in the food sector. Ministers are committed to tacking contractual unfairness that can exist in the agri food supply chain and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is working to support farmers and ensure they get a fair price for their products.
The Government has launched a review to improve fairness in the fresh produce supply chain, supporting British farmers and growers to receive a fair price for their products and ensuring customers have access to high quality fresh British products. This review delivers on a key commitment made by the Prime Minister at the Farm to Fork Summit in May and will seek the views of industry on issues including the fairness of contracts between producers and purchasers in the sector, and how supply chain data can be used to support transparency in the negotiation process.
The review, which is open until 22 February 2024, can be found here:
https://consult.defra.gov.uk/supply-chain-fairness/contractual-relationships-in-the-uk-freshproduce-i/
Farmers in North Devon and across the country are facing some of the biggest challenges of their lifetime and I will continue to ensure that their voices are heard and champion our Great British farmers and ensure they get a fair price for their products.
January 2024
Livestock Exports
Selaine’s response:
The UK has some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world which the Government continues to strengthen further.
My ministerial colleagues and I recognise that long journey times for slaughter and fattening pose welfare risks including stress, exhaustion and injury. I understand that the shortest direct to slaughter export journey from Great Britain to continental Europe in 2018 was a journey time of 18 hours. Most domestic journeys to slaughter in the UK are significantly shorter. In 2020, the Government carried out a consultation on ending live animal exports, and 87 per cent of respondents agreed that livestock and horses should not be exported for slaughter and fattening.
Now that the UK is no longer in the European Union, the Government can end live animal exports, further strengthening animal welfare protections. The Animal Welfare (Livestock Exports) Bill delivers the Government’s manifesto commitment by banning the live export of cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and horses for slaughter and fattening. It will prevent unnecessary long export journeys, instead using shorter and less stressful domestic journeys. The Bill will ensure that animals are slaughtered domestically, in high welfare UK slaughterhouses and preventing the export to unknown and likely lower welfare slaughterhouse conditions. These new rules will still allow live animal exports in other circumstances, for example for breeding and competitions, provided they are transported in line with legal requirements aimed at protecting their welfare.
While no animals have been exported for slaughter from Great Britain since the Government announced its intention to bring forward a ban in 2021, I know that this Bill makes this permanent. I am assured that this legislation reinforces the UK’s position as a world leader on animal welfare, boosting the value of British meat and helping to grow the economy.
I welcome that the Bill had its Second Reading in the House of Commons in December 2023 and I look forward to supporting this Bill as it continues to progress through parliament.
January 2024
Caged Farm Animals
Selaine’s response:
The Government is firmly committed to the UK’s strong track record on animal welfare and to delivering continued improvements, both in this Parliament and beyond.
I understand that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) does not consider that the time is right to consult on cage reforms, considering the challenges facing the laying hen and pig sectors.
The UK is ahead of most other pig producing countries in terms of zero confinement farrowing, in that 40% of the national sow breeding herd farrow freely on outdoor pig units with no option of confinement. The Government’s animal welfare priorities for its Animal Health and Welfare Pathway include supporting producers to transition away from confinement systems.
November 2023
Puppy Smuggling
Selaine’s response:
I would like to assure you that ministers are committed to cracking down on puppy smuggling and will ban the imports of young or heavily pregnant dogs, as well as dogs with mutilations, such as cropped ears or docked tails. Applying strengthened penalties will send a clear message that animal cruelty will not be tolerated and will enable our courts to take a firmer approach to cases where pets are illegally imported. I know that the Government would be supportive of legislation to ban this through a single issue Bill when parliamentary time allows.
The UK has one of the most rigorous pet travel border checking regimes in the world and I am aware that every dog travelling into Great Britain on approved routes has its microchip and paperwork checked to make sure they are all properly vaccinated and are old enough to travel. In addition, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) consulted on proposed changes to the commercial and non-commercial movements of pets into Great Britain. Defra has been carefully reviewing feedback from this consultation, and I look forward to reading a summary in due course.
Further, ministers have taken action to tackle the practice of puppy farming. Following the introduction of Lucy’s Law in 2020, everyone must now buy directly from breeders or consider adopting from rescue centres, which is a major step in stopping the illegal pet trade. If an individual sells puppies or kittens without a licence, they could receive an unlimited fine or be sent to prison for up to six months.
November 2023
Buying British Produce
Selaine’s response:
I recognise the crucial role our farmers play in supporting food security, driving economic growth, and helping us achieve our net zero goals. I know that the Government is proud to celebrate our British farmers and growers who work to produce world renowned, high quality produce all year round.
I am aware that Ministers are working to raise awareness of the UK’s reputation for high quality food and drink produced to high standards of food safety, animal welfare, and sustainability. The Government’s Food Strategy promotes more locally sourced food and commits to maintaining the current level of food we produce domestically and increasing production in sectors with the biggest opportunities, such as horticulture and seafood.
I am aware of the campaign calling for a “Buy British” section when shopping online, and I signed Dr Luke Evans MP's letter calling on supermarkets to add the “Buy British” button. I would like to assure you that I fully recognise the importance of buying British produce from our supermarkets. I understand that in September, the Government backed calls for industry led action to signpost customers to buy British food and drink when shopping online and will support campaigns to endorse the taste and quality of home grown meat and dairy products. I will continue to follow this issue closely.
Through working with producers and supermarkets through the Food Data Transparency Partnership, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs will improve the data collected on where our food comes from to make British products more easily recognisable to international buyers. In addition, farmers that produce sustainable British food under the environmental land management schemes will be able to use them to help meet public procurement standards, benefiting our British farmers and allowing the public sector to benefit from more excellent British food.
Further, following the UK Farm to Fork Summit, the Government confirmed £2 million of investment to boost the UK’s programme of global trade shows and missions, as well as £1.6 million for the GREAT food and drink campaign. Our food and drink exports bring £24 billion to the British economy, and the UK’s network of agri-food attachés play an important role in removing barriers to trade and opening up new trading markets. The UK will build on its existing overseas network with five additional agri-food and drink attachés who will have a key role in removing restrictive market barriers.
The UK has good reason to be proud of its food and drink industry. Our network of food festivals, as well as our country’s restaurants and pubs, are testament to that. Both my ministerial colleagues and I continue to support campaigns to persuade consumers to choose British.
November 2023
Trophy Hunting
Selaine’s response:
Ministers take the welfare of all animals extremely seriously and are committed to strengthening and supporting long term conservation of animals both internationally and at home.
I was proud to have signed Henry Smith’s letter to call on the Prime Minister to ban trophy hunting imports. It was a privilege to speak in the Second Reading in support of this Bill last year and highlight how trophy hunting is leading to the destruction of our natural world.
I appreciate the strength of feeling around this issue to the people of North Devon, with over 60 residents having written to me directly to support the Bill. I believe that by preventing the import of these trophies, the UK Government is echoing the will of the British people and backing communities around the world who are turning to more sustainable forms of tourism.
Following this Bill falling as a result of House of Lords delaying tactics, I am calling on the Prime Minister to enact the manifesto commitment he stood on at the last General Election and asking him to introduce a Government bill to make the ban on trophy hunting imports become a reality and help protect the world’s threatened species.
I would like to assure you that the Government remains committed to delivering on the manifesto pledge to ban the import of hunting trophies, and Ministers will continue to explore ways to bring this forward. I will continue to monitor this closely.
November 2023
Ocean Protection
Selaine’s response:
Over 200 of you in North Devon have written to me about the Global Ocean Treaty and many of you have asked that I attend the parliamentary reception held in parliament on the 23rd October. I am very glad I did, as I was able to speak with the High Seas Alliance and Great Blue Ocean to find out more about the Global Ocean Treaty and why ratifying it into UK law is so important.
The UK is a global leader in protecting our seas, the ocean and marine life, working with counterparts both in the UK and overseas.
Almost 200 countries agreed a deal to protect nature at COP15 in December 2022, including a global commitment to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030 and also to protect 30 per cent of land and oceans by 2030. I understand that nearly 8.3 per cent of the global ocean is protected. The UK has announced nearly £30 million to support developing countries to deliver the "30 by 30" target. In addition, in March, UN Member States agreed the High Seas Treaty, which aims to place 30 per cent of the seas into protected areas by 2030.
Further, 374 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) protect 38 per cent of UK waters, which are all subject to planning and licensing regimes to ensure they are protected from harmful activities. The Government’s Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) sets the country on a path to deliver an improved marine environment and halt the decline in biodiversity which benefits us all. As set out in the EIP, the Government has a statutory target to have 70 per cent of designated features in MPAs in a favourable condition by 2042, with the remainder in a recovering condition.
Finally, the first three Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs) have come into force. These areas of the sea will benefit from the highest level of protection which will exclude all fishing, thus encouraging full recovery of marine ecosystems. For HPMAs to be successful, the Government will work with the fishing industry, other marine industries and sea users in designating, managing and monitoring them. As an active member of the Conservative Environment Network and as a coastal MP who champions the ocean I look forward to continuing my work to ensure that our oceans are protected.
November 2023
Pope Francis
Selaine’s response:
I too am deeply concerned about climate change and the impact it is having on our world. I therefore welcome that tackling climate change is already a top priority for the UK Government and why protecting our environment has been a key part of my 6 point plan for North Devon.
Building on the legacy of COP26 and the UK's leadership on net zero, the Government's aim ahead of COP28 is to work with international partners to deliver a COP outcome that puts the world on track to keep 1.5 degrees within reach. I welcome that the Government wants to see ambitious action across all pillars of the Paris agreement (finance, mitigation and adaptation).
I also note your particular concern for countries which contribute the least to climate change but are the most susceptible to its consequences. At COP27 the UK and other parties agreed to establish a Transitional Committee under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to develop loss and damage funding arrangements. I am assured that the UK Government will work closely with members and other UNFCCC parties to ensure these funding arrangements consider how to support countries at high risk of debt distress from climate related loss and damage. Ministers are committed to making a positive contribution to the committee’s aims and objectives ahead of COP28.
Furthermore, at the Africa Climate Summit in September 2023, the Minister for Climate and the Environment reaffirmed the Government's commitment to spend £11.6 billion on international climate finance, with approximately 40 per cent of this being spent on Africa.
November 2023
Breed-Specific Legislation
Selaine’s response:
Under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, it is an offence to allow any dog to be out of control in any place. In addition, the Dogs Act 1871 allows a complaint to be made to a Magistrates’ court by any individual, the police, or local authorities where dogs are dangerous and not kept under proper control. The court may make any order it considers appropriate to require owners to keep their dogs under proper control.
I recognise the strength of feeling regarding the existing provisions around dog breeds in the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. However, I am also aware that any changes to current legislation would require careful consideration to ensure that public safety remains at its heart.
Simply repealing the breed specific provisions contained in the Dangerous Dogs Act with no other changes may increase the risks to public safety. The Government firmly believes that these restrictions play an important part in tackling dangerous dogs.
In December 2021, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) published research in collaboration with Middlesex University, investigating measures to reduce dog attacks and promote responsible dog ownership across all breeds of dog. It included recommendations relating to improved data recording and collection, consistency in enforcement practice, the quality of dog training and dog awareness courses, and improved awareness of appropriate behaviour around dogs.
Defra established an expert Responsible Dog Ownership working group with the police, local authorities and animal welfare experts to identify additional measures to reduce dog attacks and promote responsible dog ownership. I look forward to reading more about the group’s recommendations in due course.
November 2023
Cat Theft
Selaine’s response:
I would like to assure you that I fully recognise that the theft of a much loved pet can have a huge impact on both pets and families. In March, I attended the All Party Parliamentary Group on Cats' event with Pet Theft Awareness in Westminster to support their ‘Tackle Cat Theft’ campaign.
There has also been positive news for cat owners this year, following the announcement from Defra on the introduction of compulsory microchipping for pet cats in June 2024. The new rules mean that cats must be microchipped before they reach 20 weeks of age.
The Kept Animals Bill, introduced in June 2021, was designed to implement several government ambitions for animal welfare, including banning the live exports of animals, seeking to prevent pet theft, and new measures to tackle livestock worrying. I am aware that the Bill’s multi-issue nature means that there has been considerable scope creep, and it risks going beyond the original commitments in the Conservative manifesto on which I was elected and those set out in the action plan. Therefore, the Government will now be taking forward measures in the Kept Animals Bill individually during the remainder of the Parliament.
I am delighted to have backed Cats Protection ’s campaign, and I am happy that this legislation will mean more lost cats can be reunited with their families.
November 2023
Fireworks and Animals
Selaine’s response:
My ministerial colleagues and I recognise that the majority of those who use fireworks do so in a responsible and safe manner. The Government supports the considerate use of fireworks and believes that the existing framework strikes the right balance between allowing individuals to enjoy fireworks while reducing the risks and disturbances to individuals, animals and property. While I appreciate your concerns, I understand that the Government does not have any plans to introduce new restrictions on the use of fireworks, or to reduce their maximum noise level.
To reduce disturbance to both animals and people, there is a noise level limit of 120 decibels on fireworks for home use. The Animal Welfare Act 2006 makes it an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to animals through the misuse of fireworks. They should not be set off near livestock or close to buildings that house livestock, or near to horses in fields. Anyone planning a firework display in rural areas should warn neighbouring farmers
Further, I understand that retailers are restricted to selling consumer fireworks during a limited period around specific seasonal celebrations, and retailers may only supply fireworks outside these periods if they obtain a licence from their local licensing authority. Fireworks used for professionally organised displays are only available for sale to people who have undertaken an accredited course of training in pyrotechnics. Enforcement powers exist for local authorities to take action when fireworks are unsafe, sold illegally or misused. Local authorities and the police also have powers to tackle anti-social behaviour caused by the misuse of fireworks.
October 2023
Ocean Protection
Selaine’s response:
I plan to attend the High Seas Alliance and Great Blue Ocean’s reception in Parliament on 23 October and look forward to discussing ocean protection further. The UK is a global leader in protecting our seas, the ocean and marine life, and works with counterparts both in the UK and overseas to help achieve these aims.
As a coastal MP, I know how important our oceans and beaches are to the residents of North Devon and to people across the UK. This year, I led a Westminster Hall Debate on Reducing Plastic in our Oceans, mentioning the fantastic efforts made by The Ocean Cleanup who are aiming to remove 90% of floating plastic from the ocean by 2040. I hope to continue my work championing the ocean in Westminster and North Devon.
October 2023
Nature’s Recovery
Selaine’s response:
I share my constituents’ wish to see nature and the environment prioritised. I would now like to take some time to respond to the points in your correspondence, and outline the steps the Government is already taking to address each of them.
The Government has a legally binding target to halt the decline of nature by 2030, which requires action in our protected sites as vital wildlife havens. In its Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP), the Government restated the commitment to restore 75% of protected sites to a favourable condition by 2042, while also setting an interim target to put us on the right path to achieving this goal by 31 January 2028.
I know that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) worked closely with Natural England in setting the interim targets in the EIP and consulted widely on the legally binding targets set out in 2022. Defra continues to work closely with Natural England to achieve both of these commitments.
Further, through the Sustainable Farming Incentive, farmers are paid for actions that support food production and improve farm productivity and resilience, while also protecting and improving the environment. This includes actions relating to soil health, hedgerow management, providing food and habitats for wildlife, and managing pests and nutrients.
When adopted at scale by farmers, these actions will make a significant contribution to the Government’s environment and climate targets, and support objectives to maintain food production and improve farm productivity. This includes the aim published in the EIP of between 65 and 80% of landowners and farmers adopting nature friendly farming on at least 10 to 15% of their land by 2030.
Regarding green jobs, you may welcome that the UK has attracted around £120 billion investment in renewables since 2010 and is expected to attract a further £100 billion investment in net zero by 2030, supporting up to 480,000 jobs. The Government is providing investors with long term certainty over policy and regulatory frameworks to unlock investment and create jobs in green industries such as hydrogen, carbon capture, offshore wind and nuclear.
Finally, it is my view that access to open spaces and nature is important for the health and wellbeing of our communities, and I welcome that Ministers have set a new ambition that everyone should live within 15 minutes’ walk of a green or blue space. Through the £14.5m ‘Access for All’ programme, the Government has targeted measures to improve access to our protected landscapes and countryside. Defra is also working to complete the England Coast Path, which will be the longest waymarked and maintained coast walking route in the world. Ministers are also creating large scale, publicly accessible woodlands near towns and cities.]
I hope that this response has assured constituents that the Government is already taking steps to protect nature and ensure that it is easily accessible to as many people as possible.
October 2023
Animal Welfare:
Selaine’s response:
I would like to assure constituents that the Government is committed to upholding our world leading animal welfare standards and to delivering a series of ambitious reforms, as outlined in the Action Plan for Animal Welfare.
The Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act 2022 enshrines in domestic law the recognition that animals are sentient and creates an expert Animal Sentience Committee, which will advise the Government on how policy decisions should take account of animal welfare. In addition, the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act introduced tougher sentences for animal cruelty, increasing maximum sentences. The Ivory Act came into force in 2022 and has recently been extended to cover five more endangered species.
The Kept Animals Bill, introduced in June 2021, was designed to implement several of the Government’s ambitions for animal welfare. This included banning the live exports of animals, seeking to prevent pet theft, and new measures to tackle livestock worrying. I am aware that the Bill’s multi issue nature means that there has been considerable scope creep, and the Bill risked being extended far beyond the original commitments in the Conservative Manifesto that I was elected on, as well as the Action Plan for Animal Welfare. Therefore, the Government will now be taking forward measures in the Kept Animals Bill individually during the remainder of the Parliament. I am assured that the Government remains fully committed to delivering its manifesto commitments on animal welfare, and I continue to press for this to happen.
Finally, the Government has supported a number of Private Members’ Bill which will deliver important animal welfare reforms. These include the Shark Fins Act, which will ban the import and export of shark fins, as well as the Animals (Low-Welfare Activities Abroad) Act, which will ban the sale and advertising of activities abroad which involve low standards of welfare for animals. This new legislation is part of a wider Government effort to build on the UK's existing world-leading animal welfare standards.
Animal Welfare: Food Labelling
My ministerial colleagues and I want to make it easier for the consumer to purchase food that aligns with their values, by improving transparency and providing the industry with a level playing field to promote such products. I understand that the majority of consumers value high standards of animal welfare but that this is not always fully reflected in what they purchase.
The Government ran a call for evidence in 2021 to gather data on the impacts of different types of labelling reforms for animal welfare. I am aware that over 1,600 responses were received and the evidence suggested that there is public appetite for improved welfare labelling. However, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) does not consider the time is right to consult on proposals to reform labelling for animal welfare.
Ministers intend to continue working with industry to explore how we can harness the market to improve food information for consumers and raise animal welfare standards. As part of this, Defra will continue to gather evidence on the impacts of wide range of market interventions, as well as how they would align with wider labelling proposals such as eco labelling.
Animal Offenders Register
There is no place in this country for animal cruelty, and we must ensure that those who abuse animals are met with the full force of the law. Animals are protected under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 which makes it an offence to cause any animal unnecessary suffering. The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act 2021 increased the sentences available for the most serious cases of animal cruelty, with a new maximum sentence of five years’ imprisonment, an unlimited fine, or both. Any case of cruelty is completely unacceptable, and I would fully welcome prosecutions being brought against anyone who is found to have caused unnecessary suffering to an animal.
Regarding the specific issue you raise, I must tell you that I am not aware of any current plans in Parliament to introduce an Animal Offenders Register. However, I understand that the Police National Computer already records convictions for animal cruelty offences. Certain organisations have access to this information, where appropriate to fulfil their public function. This allows this important information to be securely protected from misuse, but also for it to be available for organisations with a justified need to access this information.
Finally, if anyone, including animal welfare charities or pet breeders, has concerns about whether someone is keeping animals in contravention of a disqualification order, they should report it to the police who can investigate.
Farmed Fish: Welfare
The Animal Welfare Act 2006 makes it an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to any protected animal, or to fail to provide for the welfare needs of an animal, including fish. Regulations also require that farmed fish are spared avoidable pain, distress or suffering during their killing and related operations.
I am aware that Regulation 1099/2009 on the protection of animals at the time of killing requires that farmed fish are spared avoidable pain, distress or suffering during their killing and related operations but does not include any further requirements. The Welfare of Animals at the Time of Killing (England) Regulations 2015 makes it an offence for any person engaged in the restraint, stunning or killing of an invertebrate to cause avoidable pain, distress or suffering.
As part of the Government’s Action Plan for Animal Welfare, Ministers have been considering improvements that could be made to the welfare of farmed fish at the time of killing and asked the Animal Welfare Committee for advice on the killing of farmed fish. The committee has updated its advice from 2014 and I am assured that the Government will study their recommendations carefully to determine possible next steps, including those around the stunning of farming fish.
Finally, I am aware that any allegations of welfare or health issues will be investigated by the Animal and Plant Health Agency and Cefas. Appropriate action is taken against anyone who breaks the law when non compliances are disclosed.
October 2023
River Management Petition
Selaine’s response:
I would like to assure constituents that my ministerial colleagues and I fully appreciate the importance of our rivers. The volume of sewage and other pollution being discharged into our waters is completely unacceptable. The Government’s Plan for Water, published earlier this year, sets out more investment, stronger regulation and tougher enforcement to tackle every source of pollution.
As part of the plan, over £2.2 billion of investment has been accelerated. This will be directed into vital infrastructure to improve water quality and secure future supplies, with £1.7 billion of this to tackle storm overflows. Ministers have set stringent targets for water companies to reduce storm overflows, driving the largest infrastructure programme in water company history of £56 billion over 25 years. This is a credible plan which includes front loading action in particularly important and sensitive sites, including bathing waters.
Regarding regulation, ministers are driving up monitoring and transparency. Monitoring of storm overflows has increased substantially, from only 7% in 2010 to 91% now, and companies are on track to reach 100% by the end of the year. It is precisely because of this monitoring that action can be taken to fix storm overflows and hold water companies to account. The Government is clear that water companies must not profit from environmental damage and Ofwat has been given increased powers under the Environment Act 2021 to hold them to account for poor performance. In March, Ofwat announced new powers that will enable it to take enforcement actions against water companies that do not link dividend payments to performance for both customers and the environment.
In July, Ministers introduced laws to remove the £250,000 cap on penalties that can be handed out by environmental regulators, as well as significantly broaden their scope to target a much wider range of offences. This will ensure that regulators have the right tools to drive compliance across a range of sectors, including water companies. Fines from water companies are being reinvested into the new Water Restoration Fund, which will deliver on the ground improvements to water quality and support local groups and community led schemes which help to protect our waterways.
Further, the Environment Agency has launched the largest criminal investigation into unpermitted water company sewage discharges ever at over 2,200 treatment works. I am assured that Environment Agency funding is closely monitored to ensure that it can carry out its duties and functions effectively. Its funding for inspections comes directly from the permits issued to companies; enforcement is funded by government, and in the current Spending Review period, the Environment Agency’s environment RDEL (Resource) grant for 2022/23 increased to £96 million from £56 million in 2020/21.
I am assured that these measures and others are making progress and Ministers will continue to make further improvements where necessary. Our bathing waters continue to improve, with 93% classified as good or excellent in 2022 compared to 76% in 2010. There is now 80% less phosphorus and 85% less ammonia in our rivers compared to 1990 when water was privatised.
September 2023
National Air Pollution Control Programme
Selaine’s response:
I would first like to make clear that the Government remains fully committed to reducing emissions of the five key air pollutants and achieving the ambitious emission reduction targets set out in the National Emission Ceilings Regulations (NECR). The targets in the NECR are unchanged by the Retained EU Law Act.
Furthermore, going forward there will continue to be transparency and scrutiny of the UK’s progress in achieving its emissions targets. The Government is maintaining all provisions regarding the publication of emissions inventories and projections, which will show, on an annual basis, whether the UK has achieved its current emissions targets and whether it is on track to achieve future targets on the basis of firm and funded policy measures.
In addition, the Government will communicate progress on policies through existing air quality communications such as the statement made to Parliament on air quality under s80A of the Environment Act 1995.
I understand that the intention behind the proposed reforms to the NECR in regard to the National Air Pollution Control Programme (NAPCP) is simply to reduce administrative burdens and aid transparency around air quality emissions policy by streamlining communications on air pollution policy with existing national strategies. In the most recent NAPCP consultation, of those who expressed an opinion, a majority agreed that the format of the NAPCP could be improved, with a consensus that the format was too lengthy and too technical. Indeed, the substantive policy content of the NAPCP is a duplication of material contained, in a more accessible format, in national policy statements.
Moreover, the NAPCP consultation does not engage significant numbers of interested parties. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs carried out a full UK public consultation on the NAPCP last year requiring the use of official and ministerial time. The consultation only received 55 responses. In addition, all the policies and measures included in the Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) have either been consulted on individually or will be consulted on during the policy development process.
It is in my view, more important that we get on with delivering the policies that will actually clean up our air, as set out in the EIP, than consult on and revise an NAPCP.
September 2023
Live Animal Exports
Selaine’s response:
The UK has long led the way on animal welfare. In 2021, the Government's Action Plan for Animal Welfare, set out reforms for this Parliament and beyond. Since then, the Government has passed the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act, recognising the sentience of vertebrate animals and some invertebrate animals. In addition, the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act introduced tougher sentences for cruelty, increasing maximum sentences. The Ivory Act came into force in 2022 and has recently been extended to cover five more endangered species.
The Kept Animals Bill was designed to implement several ambitions for animal welfare, including banning the live exports of animals. However, the Bill’s multi issue nature meant that there was considerable scope creep, and the Bill risked going beyond the original commitments in the manifesto on which I was elected and those set out in the action plan. Therefore, the Government announced in May that it would take forward measures in the Kept Animals Bill individually during the remainder of the Parliament.
I am assured by my ministerial colleagues that they are committed to ending the export of live animals for fattening and slaughter. There have not been any live exports for fattening or slaughter since 2020 and the Government wants to make this permanent. Unfortunately, due to diary commitments, I am unable to attend the event in Parliament on 18 October, however I will continue to follow this issue closely.
September 2023
Literary Landscapes
Selaine’s response:
I believe that the landscapes that inspired some of country’s most treasured works of literature should be protected for future generations to enjoy. I agree that our planning system should protect important natural landscapes and heritage assets, and I would like to assure you that my ministerial colleagues are committed to ensuring it does just that.
While literary landscapes are not subject to a separate designation within the planning system, I am aware that they are protected more generally through the National Planning Policy Framework. This sets out planning guidance for local authorities in England and makes clear that local planning authorities’ planning policies should conserve and enhance the natural, built and historic environment, including landscapes. The framework also states that planning policies should recognise the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside.
I understand that Ministers intend to undertake a fuller review of the National Planning Policy Framework later this year to ensure the reformed planning system can effectively mitigate and adapt to climate change and maximise environmental benefits. I would encourage you to share your views when this consultation launches.
More broadly, the Government is introducing changes to the planning system to incentivise more local authorities to adopt and update local plans, which provide a framework for local authorities to set out their vision for their area and a platform for local people to shape their surroundings. Crucially, local plans can protect the important landscapes communities cherish and direct homes to the places local people prefer.
The Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill will increase the weight given to local plans when making decisions on applications, so that there must be strong reasons to override the plan. The legislation will also help to foster better environmental outcomes, with a new requirement to prepare Environmental Outcomes Reports to assess the potential environmental effects of relevant plans and major projects.
I believe that, together, these measures will help protect our beautiful countryside and landscapes for decades to come.
September 2023
Electric Collars
Selaine’s response:
The UK has some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world and my ministerial colleagues and I are committed to raising these standards even higher.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has considered the evidence regarding the use of electronic aids to control dogs. I am aware that research commissioned by Defra showed that many electric collar users were not using them properly or in compliance with the manufacturers’ instructions. As well as being misused to inflict unnecessary harm, there is also concern that electric collars can redirect aggression or generate anxiety based behaviour in pets, making underlying behavioural and health problems worse. In addition, the Government’s consultation on this received more than 7,000 responses.
Following this research, as well as engagement with trainers, behaviourists, electric collar manufacturers, the animal welfare sector, veterinary and dog keeping organisations, the Government will ban training collars in England that can deliver an electric shock to a cat or dog by a hand held remote controlled device.
I understand that this ban will not extend to collars which use alternative stimuli, such as noise, spray or vibration. Invisible fencing systems which help animals quickly learn to stay within a boundary and have welfare benefits, such as keeping pets away from roads, will also still be permitted. These new regulations will come into force on 1 February 2024.
August 2023
Dangerous Dogs
Selaine’s response:
I share the concerns about dog attacks that have taken place in recent weeks. They are extremely distressing and I would like to express my deepest sympathy to all the families of those who have died due to dogs that have been out of control.
I recognise the strength of feeling regarding the existing provisions around dog breeds in the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. However, I am also aware that any changes to current legislation would require careful consideration to ensure that public safety remains at the heart of the regime.
I am aware that simply repealing the breed specific provisions contained in the Dangerous Dogs Act with no other changes may increase the risks to public safety. The Government firmly believes that these restrictions play an important part in tackling dangerous dogs.
Under the Dangerous Dogs Act, it is an offence to allow any dog to be out of control in any place. Furthermore, the Dogs Act 1871 allows a complaint to be made to a Magistrates’ Court by any individual, the police, or local authorities where dogs are dangerous and not kept under proper control. The court may make any order it considers appropriate to require owners to keep their dogs under proper control.
In December 2021, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) published research in collaboration with Middlesex University, investigating measures to reduce dog attacks and promote responsible dog ownership across all breeds of dog. The report made recommendations relating to improved data recording and collection, consistency in enforcement practice, the quality of dog training and dog awareness courses, and improved awareness of appropriate behaviour around dogs.
Defra established an expert Responsible Dog Ownership working group with the police, local authorities and animal welfare experts to identify additional measures to reduce dog attacks and promote responsible dog ownership across all dog breeds. I look forward to reading more about the group’s recommendations in due course.
August 2023
Climate, Nature and Farming
Selaine's response:
The Government recognises the importance of climate action and I welcome that the UK was the first G7 country to legislate to achieve net zero by 2050 and is decarbonising faster than any G20 country.
Ministers are bolstering domestic renewable energy production through the Energy Security Strategy. This sets out plans to accelerate the deployment of wind, new nuclear, solar and hydrogen, while supporting the production of domestic oil and gas in the nearer term, which could see 95% of electricity being low carbon by 2030. As chair of the Celtic Sea APPG, I am glad that there are new ambitions to include producing up to 50GW of offshore wind by 2030, more than enough to power every home in the UK.
The Government remains firmly committed to its net zero target. However, oil and gas will be required in the transition to net zero, and simply turning off the taps would mean we would have to import oil and gas, leaving us susceptible to global circumstances. The Government is therefore boosting our energy security by committing to hundreds of new oil and gas field licences in the North Sea, making sure we are not reliant on expensive, foreign imports.
I would like to assure you that I fully recognise the valuable work of our farmers in North Devon and across the country. The Government has committed to maintaining the £2.4 billion annual farming budget in England over this parliament. The Sustainable Farming Incentive pays farmers for actions that support food production and can help improve farm productivity and resilience, while protecting and improving the environment.
Finally, regarding forests, the Government introduced world leading legislation through the Environment Act to tackle illegal deforestation in UK supply chains. The Act’s provisions will make it illegal for larger businesses operating in the UK to use key forest risk commodities produced on land illegally occupied or used. Businesses in scope will also be required to undertake a due diligence exercise on their supply chains, to assess and mitigate the risk of regulated commodities having been produced on land illegally owned and used, and to report on this exercise annually. I understand that ministers are committed to implementing due diligence provisions at the earliest opportunity through secondary legislation.
August 2023
Ethical Research and Innovation
Selaine’s response:
I share the Government's commitment to the development of alternatives to using animals in scientific procedures and I am glad the Government continues to actively support and fund the development and dissemination of the 3Rs (replacement, reduction and refinement) for the use of animals in scientific procedures.
This is achieved through UK Research and Innovation’s funding of the National Centre for the 3Rs, which works nationally and internationally to drive the uptake of non animal technologies, and through research into the development of alternatives by Innovate UK, the Medical Research Council, and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.
The recommendations in the Non Animal Technologies Roadmap continue to be delivered including a £1.6 million commitment for the development of a virtual dog to help reduce the use of dogs in the safety testing of new medicines and £4.7 million funding for next generation non animal technologies that provide reliable, predictive and cost effective alternatives to the use of animals. Scientists and representatives from regulatory bodies are involved in these efforts to accelerate the use of non animal technologies.
The Home Office regulator, the Animals in Science Regulation Unit, will only grant licences to use animals in science where there are no alternatives, where the number of animals used is the minimum needed to achieve the scientific benefit, and where the potential harm to animals is limited to that needed to achieve the scientific benefit.
Furthermore, the Government has announced that no new licences will be granted for animal testing of chemicals that are exclusively intended to be used as ingredients in cosmetics products. I understand that the Government is also engaging with the relevant companies to urgently determine a way forward on legacy licences.
I will continue to monitor developments in this area closely.
July 2023
Brachycephalic Animals
Selaine’s response:
The UK has some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world and it shares the highest ranking on the animal protection index and the highest in the G7. I would like to assure you that the Government takes the issue of low welfare and illegal supply of animals very seriously. Significant steps have been taken to improve and update the laws in England to crack down on unscrupulous breeders who breed purely for financial greed at the expense of animal welfare.
Under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018, anyone in the business of breeding and selling dogs and/or who breeds three or more litters in a twelve month period needs to have a valid licence from their local authority. Under these regulations, local authorities have powers to grant, refuse or revoke a licence. I am aware that licences must achieve and maintain statutory minimum animal welfare standards, linked to the welfare needs of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
Further, under these regulations, licensed breeders are prohibited from breeding dogs if it can be reasonably expected that on the basis of their genotype, phenotype or health, this would lead to welfare problems for the mother or the puppies. I know that this applies in the case of brachycephalic breeds. Both licensed and unlicensed animal breeders are required under the Animal Welfare Act to protect the animals involved in breeding from harm and to provide for their welfare in line with good practice. A breach of these provisions may lead to imprisonment, a fine, or both.
I understand that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is in the process of reviewing the 2018 Regulations. I look forward to reading the report on this issue in due course.
Finally, Defra’s campaign Petfished raises awareness of issues associated with low welfare and illegal supply of pets. The campaign provides a list of red flags for buyers to look out for when searching for a pet online. More information can be found here: https://getyourpetsafely.campaign.gov.uk/
July 2023
Canals
Selaine's response:
Canals form an important part of the Government’s work in reintroducing biodiversity in nature. In addition to their history and industrial heritage, there are significant health and wellbeing benefits to walking along a canal. I understand that around 800 million visits are made to our canals every year, which demonstrates their importance in the UK.
The Government is developing policies to adapt to climate change across the country and I am aware that navigation authorities are exploring ways to adapt the network, such as through installing electric charging points in rivers and canals, which have helped encourage boaters to switch to electric vessels.
The Canal & River Trust is responsible for 2,000 miles of waterways and associated historic industrial infrastructure in England and Wales. It is responsible for maintaining the navigability and safety of its waterways including reservoirs, embankments and other infrastructure. The Government recognises that the organisation has an important role to play in contributing to the Environmental Improvement Plan.
Since it was first created in 2012 as a private charity independent of the Government, Ministers have been clear that the Canal & River Trust would have to increasingly move towards alternative sources of funding. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has been discussing this with the charity for some time and has been offering support on how it can increase income from other sources, alongside continued funding from the Government.
While there is no obligation on Ministers to fund the Canal & River Trust beyond 2027, I am aware that, subject to certain conditions being met, the Government will offer a new long term funding package of over £400 million. To date, the Canal & River Trust has been supported with £550 million funding from the Government. With this further commitment, the charity will be supported with a further £590 million until 2037.
I know that my ministerial colleagues and I look forward to continued enjoyment of our local waterways.
July 2023
Bearskin Caps
Selaine’s response:
I am aware of the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals’ (PETA) ongoing campaign to replace the real fur used in the bearskin King’s Guards ceremonial caps with faux fur.
Guardsmen take great pride in wearing the bearskin cap, which is an iconic image of Britain, and the MOD is very sparing in the acquisitions that it makes. Individual soldiers do not possess their own hats, rather they are cared for and shared within the Household Division and, despite their constant use, every effort is made to carefully prolong the longevity of each ceremonial cap. On account of this, they usually last for more than a decade, with some having been in use for as long as 60 years.
I can assure constituents that the MOD would like to find an alternative material to bearskin should one prove acceptable. This is a commitment the MOD takes very seriously. Indeed, where sustainable, affordable and appropriate faux material exists, the MOD has used it; the busby caps of the Royal Horse Artillery are a prime example.
The MOD have not to date seen evidence that a suitable faux fur product exists to be considered as an alternative. Until that material is sourced and proven, I can assure you that the UK goes to great lengths to ensure that the pelts that make the King's Guards caps are procured in the most responsible way possible.
To be clear, bears are never hunted to order for the MOD. Bear pelts used for the King’s Guards’ ceremonial caps are sourced exclusively from Canada precisely because it is a regulated market and a declared party to the convention on international trade in endangered species of wild fauna and flora.
June 2023
Animal Testing
Selaine’s response:
Animal research plays a vital role in providing safety information for potential new medicines. As a result of findings from animal studies, a large number of potential new drugs never get as far as being tested in humans. Some aspects of the toxicological assessment of new medicines cannot be adequately assessed in humans, and animal data will be the only kind available.
I would like to reassure you that the UK's rigorous regulatory system ensures that no animal testing or research takes place if a non animal alternative exists that would achieve the scientific outcomes sought. The National Centre for the 3Rs (NC3Rs) is the UK’s leading scientific based organisation dedicated to replacing, refining, and reducing the use of animals in scientific research and testing. The NC3Rs supports the research community to use the latest science and technology to replace animal studies, providing new approaches for biomedical research, and avoiding the time and cost associated with animal models.
Without animal testing it is highly likely that a large number of potentially dangerous new medicines would be tested in healthy volunteers and patients in clinical trials. This would be completely unacceptable. That said, I welcome the Government's commitment to the development of non animal technologies. Such technologies have the potential to reduce the reliance on the use of animals, improve the efficiency of drug research and development, and deliver safer, cheaper, and more effective medicines to patients. Ministers have also stressed that they continue to actively support and fund the development and dissemination of techniques that replace, reduce, and refine the use of animals in research.
June 2023
Live Exports of Animals
Selaine’s response:
I am assured that the Government remains fully committed to delivering its manifesto commitments on animal welfare. Having left the EU, the Government is able to and will ban live exports for fattening and slaughter. There have been no live exports from Great Britain since 2020, but legislation will ensure that this becomes permanent. Ministers remain committed to delivering it.
My ministerial colleagues in Defra are committed to animal welfare and to delivering continued improvements, both in this parliament and beyond, and I continue to press to ensure this is delivered.
June 2023
People's Plan for Nature
Selaine’s response:
Biodiversity loss is a global problem that needs a global solution. I welcome that at COP15, the UN biodiversity summit held in Canada, a new deal to protect nature was agreed by almost 200 countries. The Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) includes a commitment to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030 and to protect 30% of land and oceans by 2030. The GBF also commits to ending human induced extinctions of known threatened species.
The UK played a leading role in the negotiations, building on the UK’s COP and G7 presidencies, including the Leaders Pledge for Nature. This commits world leaders to taking action to drive sustainable food production, end the illegal wildlife trade and tackle climate change. At the recent meeting of Climate and Environment Ministers of the G7, members committed to the swift implementation of the GBF, as well as international climate finance to nature based solutions.
Domestically, the Environment Act 2021 sets a legally binding target to halt the decline in species abundance by 2030. Biodiversity net gain and a strengthened biodiversity duty on public authorities will create and restore rich habitats that enable wildlife to recover and thrive, while conservation covenants will help secure habitat for the long term.
Regarding farming, the Sustainable Farming Incentive will provide farmers with a range of paid actions to manage hedgerows for wildlife, plant nectar rich wildflowers and manage crop pests without the use of insecticides. These incentives will make food production more resilient and efficient over the longer term while contributing towards the UK’s environmental goals on carbon, biodiversity, water quality and net zero.
Further, Countryside Stewardship Plus will reward farmers for taking coordinated action, working with neighbouring farms and landowners to support climate and nature aims. It will deliver environmental ambitions including managing floodplain meadows to reduce flood risk and improve biodiversity, restoring and maintaining peatland for carbon capture and storage, and enhancing and managing woodland to mitigate against drought.
June 2023
Deep Sea Mining
Selaine’s response:
The UK has agreed not to support the issuing of any exploitation licences for deep sea mining projects unless or until there is sufficient evidence about the potential impact on deep sea ecosystems.
The UK’s approach is both precautionary and conditional. As a responsible international actor and Party to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the UK is fully engaged in the negotiations underway at the International Seabed Authority (ISA) and will work closely with partners who are committed to ensuring the highest environmental standards are embedded in the Regulatory framework of the ISA.
To inform policymaking, the Government commissioned an independent evidence review into the potential risks and benefits of deep sea mining. This was conducted by the British Geological Survey, the National Oceanography Centre and Heriot-Watt University and was published in October 2022.
Through the UK’s sponsorship of academic research and existing exploration licences, over 70 peer reviewed publications supporting a greater understanding of environmental issues associated with deep sea mining have already been produced, with more to come. The Government is also part funding the SMARTEX project on seabed mining and resilience to experimental impact, which aims to build a better understanding of the ecosystem in the Pacific abyss.
The Government has made clear it would engage in public consultation ahead of making a decision to issue any UK sponsored deep sea mining exploitation licence.
May 2023
Environmental Improvement Plan
Selaine’s response:
My ministerial colleagues and I are committed to leaving the environment in a better state than we found it. The Government has already delivered with legally binding targets to halt nature’s decline, clean up our air and rivers and support a circular economy. The UK played an instrumental role in a new global agreement for nature at the UN nature summit COP15. Through its transformational farming schemes, the Government will pay farmers and land managers to restore nature.
The Environmental Improvement Plan sets out how the Government will achieve its ambitious environmental targets, the most critical of which is to halt the decline of nature by the end of this decade. It also includes a new commitment that everyone should be able to access green space or water within a 15 minute walk from their home, such as woodlands, wetlands, parks, and rivers.
Through the EIP, the Government has committed to a multi million pound Species Survival Fund to protect some of our rarest species. Through the support of Government schemes, 65 to 80% of landowners and farmers will adopt nature friendly farming practices on at least 10 to 15% of their land by 2030. They will also be supported to create or restore 30,000 miles of hedgerows a year by 2037 and 45,000 miles of hedgerows a year by 2050.
Further, Ministers have set out ten actions on water efficiency in new developments and will restore 400 miles of river through the first round of Landscape Recovery projects and establish 3,000 hectares of new woodlands along England’s rivers. Local authorities will be challenged to improve air quality more quickly by assessing their performance and use of existing powers, while supporting them with clear guidance, funding, and tools. Regarding waste, the Government will make it easier to minimise waste, with new interim targets for 2028 to reduce different types of waste, including plastic, glass, metal, paper, and food. The EIP sets out a clear framework to ensure that progress can be clearly tracked.
May 2023
Protect Literary Landscapes
Selaine’s response:
I believe that the landscapes that inspired some of country’s most treasured works of literature should be protected for future generations to enjoy. I agree that our planning system should protect important natural landscapes and heritage assets, and I would like to assure you that my ministerial colleagues are committed to ensuring it does just that.
Already, the National Planning Policy Framework, which sets out planning guidance for local authorities in England, makes clear that local planning authorities’ planning polices should conserve and enhance the natural, built and historic environment, including landscapes. The framework also states that planning policies should recognise the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside.
The Government is introducing changes to the planning system to incentivise more local authorities to adopt and update local plans. Local plans provide a framework for local authorities to set out their vision for their area and a platform for local people to shape their surroundings. Crucially, local plans can protect the important landscapes communities cherish and direct homes to the places local people prefer. The Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill will increase the weight given to local plans when making decisions on applications, so that there must be strong reasons to override the plan. The legislation will also help to foster better environmental outcomes, with a new requirement to prepare Environmental Outcomes Reports to assess the potential environmental effects of relevant plans and major projects.
Further, I understand that the Government is working on a review of protections for ancient woodlands and ancient and veteran trees in national planning policy. This will consider the options for further protecting these important habitats through the planning system.
I understand that ministers intend to undertake a fuller review of the National Planning Policy Framework later this year to ensure the reformed planning system can effectively mitigate and adapt to climate change and maximise environmental benefits. I would encourage you to share your views when this consultation launches.
I believe that, together, these measures will help protect our beautiful countryside and landscapes for decades to come.
May 2023
Cropping Dogs’ Ears
Selaine’s response:
The practice of non exempted mutilations such as cropping dogs' ears is abhorrent and has rightly been banned in the UK for 15 years. Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, it is already an offence in England and Wales to carry out a non exempted mutilation (such as where it is not carried out for medical purposes) including the cropping of a dog's ears. Under the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act 2021, anyone convicted of such an offence face being sent to prison for up to five years, or receiving an unlimited fine, or both.
The Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill introduces measures relating to the low welfare movements of pets into Great Britain and includes powers to introduce further restrictions on pet travel and on the commercial import of pets on welfare grounds, via secondary legislation. These powers will allow the Government to prioritise the welfare of dogs by prohibiting the importation and non commercial movement of dogs into Great Britain that have been subject to low welfare practices, such as ear cropping or tail docking, in line with the UK’s domestic legislation on these practices.
May 2023
Access to the Countryside
Selaine’s response:
Our countryside is of great importance, especially here in North Devon, and I fully appreciate the benefits of outdoor activities, both physically and mentally. The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 provides for a right to roam across open access land, giving the public a right of access to most areas of mountain, moor, heath, down, registered common land and coastal margin. England has a fantastic network of footpaths and the public has the ‘right to roam’ over many areas of wild, open countryside.
The Government is supporting and enhancing access to the countryside through the England Coast Path and supporting our network of National Trails. Nearly 800 miles of the England Coast Path are now open and all 2,700 miles will be fully walkable by the end of 2024. The Government’s Environmental Improvement Plan 2023 sets out a new and ambitious commitment that everyone should live within 15 minutes’ walk of a green or blue space.
The £14.5 million Access for All programme included targeted improvements to increase access in some of our most deprived urban areas. The £9 million Levelling Up Parks Fund, which is improving the condition and availability of green space for over 100 communities in urban areas across the country. The Green Infrastructure Framework will help local authorities and developers incorporate green infrastructure into development plans to improve access to nature on our doorsteps and build resilience to climate change.
Finally, ministers have also been investing £2 billion in walking and cycling over this Parliament, building hundreds of miles of high quality cycle lanes increasing access to a range of places including green spaces. The Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy includes a commitment to increase opportunities for all children and young people to spend time in nature, learn more about it, and get involved in improving their environment.
May 2023
Hen caging
Selaine's response:
My ministerial colleagues and I take the welfare of all animals very seriously. Ministers are delivering a series of ambitious reforms, as outlined in the Action Plan for Animal Welfare.
The Government is committed to strengthening animal welfare standards and is currently examining the use of cages for laying hens. Ministers recognise the need to work carefully and sensitively with the poultry industry, which is currently facing significant challenges. Decisions on a future public consultation on this issue would need to be carefully considered due to these wider challenges.
Around 60% of our hens are now kept in free-range systems, and a number of with major supermarkets have pledged to stop selling eggs from the remaining 40% of hens in colony cages by 2025. Ministers will continue to work with the poultry industry on improving feather cover and keel bone health, as well as reducing the amount of beak trimming. Further, the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway will prioritise areas for additional improvement in the health and welfare for pigs, cattle, sheep and poultry.
In April 2022 I attended the Beatrice’s Bill reception in Parliament hosted by Henry Smith MP, where I pledged my support for the campaign to end cages for laying hens in the UK. We must act to end the suffering of the 16 million laying hens in the UK who are raised in tiny cages each year, with hardly enough room to stretch their wings. By ending this suffering our legislation can be more closely aligned with the sentiment of retailers, and the wider British public.
Here in North Devon we have the British Hen Welfare Trust who are a national charity that work tirelessly to rehome commercial laying hens and encourages support for British free-range eggs. You can find out more about their work and even adopt a hen at www.bhwt.org.uk/.
April 2023
Processed Food
Selaine’s response:
I appreciate the depth of concern about the issues raised in the Soil Association’s “Taking the Biscuit” campaign. Although there is no universally agreed definition of ultra processed foods, there are clear health risks to a diet high in foods classified as processed, with an increased risk of obesity and developing chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers.
The Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN), which provides recommendations on dietary guidelines, is currently carrying out a scoping review of the evidence on processed foods and health. SACN aims to publish its initial assessment in the summer of 2023.
I understand that the campaign would like to see the Good Choice badge removed from ultra processed products, but I am assured that the Good Choice badge is underpinned by nutrition criteria that determine which products can display the badge. Both the Good Choice app and the wider Better Health campaign recognise that for many families, shifting towards the healthiest options may require more than one move.
A range of important research on obesity is funded by the Department of Health and Social Care through the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). Current projects include the NIHR Obesity Policy Research Unit investigating the factors that drive parental decisions regarding food provision for infants across different income levels.
More eligible low income families are now able to access fresh fruit and vegetables through the Healthy Start Scheme, since the value of the vouchers was increased from £3.10 to £4.25 a week in April 2021.
I am satisfied that the Government is taking a number of active steps to reduce levels of calories in products with high levels of salt, sugar and fat, but I recognise that there is more that can be done.
March 2023
Farrowing Crates
Selaine's response:
I would like to assure constituents that my ministerial colleagues and I take the welfare of all animals very seriously. Ministers are delivering a series of ambitious reforms, as outlined in the Action Plan for Animal Welfare, and I have been assured that the Government is committed to exploring the phasing out of confinement systems.
I was pleased to attend the ‘Crate Escape’ parliamentary reception and to sign the giant Mother’s Day card to Therese Coffey and I will be sure to follow this important matter closely.
March 2023
Cats Pet Theft
Selaine’s Response:
I have replied to accept the invitiation to the APPG event on cats and pet theft on the 14th March 2023, parliamentary business permitting I will be there to discuss this important issue further. As an animal lover, I have been vocal about the need to treat pets as members of the family. I cannot begin to state how heartbreaking it would be for pet owners such as myself to have their much loved pets stolen.
I have previously attended the Cats Protection campaign last year and backed their campaign for compulsory microchipping. I am delighted that the UK Government have now fully supported the plan to make microshipping pet cats compulsory in June 2024.
The offence as currently drafted in the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill focuses on dogs, with enabling powers. The inclusion of the enabling powers means that the Secretary of State would be able to extend the offence to other animals, such as cats. I am aware that this Bill is due to return to the House as soon as parliamentary time allows.
March 2023
Ban on Trophy Hunting
Selaine’s Response:
I was proud to speak in support of Henry Smith MP's Bill to ban the import of Hunting Trophies back in November. You can watch my full speech here: https://www.selainesaxby.org.uk/trophy-hunting-ban-25th-november-2022.
Hunting purely for Trophies is an outdated hobby that has no place in modern day Britain, which is why we included this ban in our 2019 manifesto. Ministers take the welfare of all animals extremely seriously and are committed to strengthening and supporting long-term conservation of animals both internationally and at home.
In 2019, the Government held a consultation on the scale and impact of the import and export of hunting trophies. Over 44,000 responses to the call for evidence and consultation were received and 85 per cent of responses were in favour of further action. The Government’s response to the consultation set out plans to ban imports of hunting trophies from thousands of endangered and threatened species.
The Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill was introduced to Parliament as a Private Member’s Bill in June 2022. The Government fully supports this Bill, which will ban the import of hunting trophies for specific species. The Bill includes a power to add or remove species from the scope of the ban which will ensure that the Bill remains comprehensive and can achieve its aims.
I welcome that this Bill continues to make good progress and I look forward to supporting this Bill when it returns to the House.
March 2023
Fox Hunting
Selaine’s response:
This is a highly emotive issue and I appreciate the depth of your concerns for the welfare of our animals and wildlife.
The Hunting Act 2004 makes it an offence to hunt a wild mammal with dogs except where it is carried out in accordance with the exemptions in the Act. Those found guilty under the law are subject to its full force. The investigation and prosecution of all criminal offences, including consideration of whether an actual offence has been committed, is a matter for the police and Crown Prosecution Service, who have comprehensive powers to take action under criminal law. The Government was elected on a manifesto which committed to not amending the Hunting Act.
Since the introduction of the Hunting Act 2004, many hunts have turned to trail hunting as an alternative to live quarry hunting. This involves a pack of hounds following an artificially laid, animal based scent so does not involve a hunt for a live fox, and therefore is not banned. For an offence to be committed it is necessary to prove that a wild animal is being hunted intentionally. If proven, this can lead to a prosecution and an unlimited fine.
Anyone who believes that an offence has taken place during a hunt, including during a trail hunt, should report the matter to the police.
I recognise it is possible that dogs used for trail hunting may on occasion pick up and follow the scent of live foxes during a trail hunt. If that occurs, it is the responsibility of the huntsmen and women and other members of hunt staff to control their hounds and, if necessary, stop the hounds as soon as they are made aware that the hounds are no longer following the trail that has been laid.
I know that failure to prevent dogs from chasing or killing a fox may be taken as intent to break the law. Anyone who believes that an offence has taken place should report the matter to the police, as the police deal with complaints of illegal hunting. I understand that decisions on the arrest and prosecution of those taking part in illegal hunting activities are matters for the police and prosecuting authorities.
They will, among other things, need to take into account any failure on behalf of the huntsman to prevent the dogs from chasing or killing a fox. If anybody is found to be breaking the law on this sort of activity, I would fully welcome prosecutions being brought.
March 2023
Global Plant Based Treaty
Selaine’s response:
The UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has concluded that the world is warming faster than anticipated, the effects of which are being seen in every single region of our planet. Urgent action is undoubtedly needed to limit global warming and put nature on a path to recovery, and I am encouraged that the Government is already taking decisive action to this end, being the first G7 country to legislate to achieve net zero by 2050 and the fastest decarbonising G20 country.
However, the UK's efforts will not be sufficient alone. That is why the Government has been calling for global ambition and action to reduce emissions across all sectors, including in agriculture, forestry and other land use, which is collectively responsible for roughly 23% of global emissions. Recognising the need to reform the way we grow and consume food in order to tackle climate change, the UK seized the opportunities of our G7 and COP26 Presidencies to drive international action and commitments to this end.
For instance, in June 2021, the G7 Leaders committed to work to accelerate an inclusive global transition to sustainable and climate resilient agriculture, and at COP26, over 140 world leaders joined the Glasgow Leaders’ Declaration on Forests and Land Use (GLD). This committed them to “halt and reverse forest loss and land degradation by 2030 while delivering sustainable development and promoting an inclusive rural transformation”, and was backed by a financial package of $19.2 billion.
Nevertheless, as demand for food increases, further action on land use and environmental degradation is urgently needed. To this end, the Prime Minister has announced £65 million for the Nature, People and Climate Programme at COP27, which supports indigenous and local forest communities. This funding will drive forward agricultural innovations and measures to boost sustainable livelihoods, as well as support work to conserve and restore millions of hectares of forest.
It is for the reasons outlined here that I do not believe it necessary to sign the Plant Based Treaty at this time. While this may be disappointing, I hope I have reassured constituents that the Government recognises the need to accelerate the shift towards sustainable food systems and considerable work is ongoing to this end.
March 2023
Farmed Fish: Welfare
Selaine’s response:
The Animal Welfare Act 2006 makes it an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to any protected animal, or to fail to provide for the welfare needs of an animal, including fish. Regulations also require that farmed fish are spared avoidable pain, distress or suffering during their killing and related operations.
I am aware that Regulation 1099/2009 on the protection of animals at the time of killing requires that farmed fish are spared avoidable pain, distress or suffering during their killing and related operations but does not include any further requirements. The Welfare of Animals at the Time of Killing (England) Regulations 2015 makes it an offence for any person engaged in the restraint, stunning or killing of an invertebrate to cause avoidable pain, distress or suffering.
As part of the Government’s Action Plan for Animal Welfare, Ministers have been considering improvements that could be made to the welfare of farmed fish at the time of killing and asked the Animal Welfare Committee for advice on the killing of farmed fish. The Committee’s advice will take into account species specific welfare considerations for fish that are farmed in the UK. I understand that Ministers expect to receive the Committee’s updated opinion by the end of March.
Finally, I am aware that any allegations of welfare or health issues will be investigated by the Animal and Plant Health Agency and Cefas. Appropriate action is taken against anyone who breaks the law when non compliances are disclosed.
March 2023
Emissions Trading Scheme permits
Selaine’s response
My ministerial colleagues and I take the threat of climate change incredibly seriously. The Government is working hard domestically and internationally to increase climate ambition. The UK was the first major economy to set a legally binding net zero target to achieve net zero by 2050 and, since then the Government has set interim targets of a 68%reduction in emissions by 2030 and a 78% reduction in emissions by 2035, both compared to 1990 levels. The increased commitments to reducing emissions were announced during COP26 as these will help to keep the 1.5 degree target alive.
The UK’s ETS launched in January 2021, covering aviation, manufacturing and fossil fuel power generation, and is more ambitious than the EU scheme it replaced. It is the world’s first net zero carbon cap and trade market, and a crucial step towards achieving the UK’s target for net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The cap on emissions has initially been set at a level which is 5% below the UK's notional share of the EU ETS cap. The UK ETS also allows the UK to encourage innovation in emerging decarbonisation technologies.
The Government is committed to carbon pricing as a tool to drive decarbonisation and intends explore expanding the UK ETS to other sectors, including aligning the total cap on emissions with net zero by no later than January 2024.
More broadly, the UK’s ETS, alongside a wide range of taxes, including the Climate Change Levy and Carbon Price Support (CPS) rate, are designed to encourage businesses and consumers to make greener choices. Specifically, the ETS and CPS have helped clean up the UK’s electricity generation and will be key to achieving the total phase out of coal by October 2024 and meeting emissions targets.
February 2023
Fashion is Fixable
Selaine’s response:
The UK supports and wants to encourage sustainable fashion. The Government recognises the importance of buying practices which do not harm the planet.
Timely payments are imperative for the smooth functioning of a modern economy. It is unacceptable that small businesses routinely spend significant time and resources chasing late payments from businesses they supply which can lead to cash flow problems, putting their firms at risk and preventing them from growing. The majority of small businesses do not have large balance sheets and cannot accommodate long payment terms or delays to receiving payment within their cash flow cycle.
The Business Secretary has recently announced an in depth review into tackling late payments for small businesses, while urging large companies to pay their smaller suppliers promptly. The review will scrutinise existing payment practices and the measures in place to make sure small firms are not ripped off by their larger clients, with over £23.4 billion currently owed in outstanding invoices to UK businesses.
Fashion is the third largest manufacturing industry in the world and, by some calculations, it produces up to 10% of the world's emissions. According to the Valuing Our Clothes report analysing the contents of British wardrobes by the Waste Resources Action Programme (WRAP), we purchased 1,130,000 tonnes of new clothing last year in the UK.
The Government is clear that it expects all UK businesses, including the fashion industry, to respect human rights throughout their operations, in line with the UN Guiding Principles. Section 54 of the Modern Slavery Act places a requirement on businesses with a turnover of £36 million or more, to publish an annual modern slavery statement setting out the steps they have taken to prevent modern slavery in their supply chains. The "Work in Freedom" programme has supported 433,650 women and girls in the garment sector in South Asia, Lebanon and Jordan with training and access to services since 2018.
February 2023
International Loss and Damage
Selaine’s response:
This issue has rightly been at the top of the international agenda in the wake of a series of climate related disasters in 2022, and agreeing to provide a specific fund for loss and damage at COP27 marked an important point of progress. Indeed, this was the first time the issue was added to the official agenda and adopted.
The agreement to provide loss and damage funding builds on the achievements of COP26 in Glasgow, which saw the agreement of clear functions and funding for the Santiago Network, an organisation set up to support vulnerable countries to access technical assistance, which the UK participates in at official representative level.
The Prime Minister has also announced that the UK will triple funding for adaptation programmes from £500 million in 2019 to £1.5 billion in 2025 as part of our international climate finance budget. In addition, the Foreign Secretary used COP27 to announce a range of significant UK investments worth more than £100 million to support developing economies to respond to climate related disasters and adapt to the impacts of climate change, delivering on targets set at COP26.
More broadly, you may be interested to know that Alok Sharma, the UK's COP26 President, regularly discusses loss and damage with international counterparts, including non governmental organisations and the private sector.
Please be assured, ministers will continue to engage on loss and damage across multilateral fora to ensure sustained action on this pressing issue.
February 2023
Neonicotinoids
Selaine’s response:
I am aware that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has approved emergency temporary authorisation for the use of the neonicotinoid pesticide Cruiser SB, due to the risks of yellows viruses to the UK's sugar beet crop.
When making this decision, the potential risks, such as any possible environmental harm, must be balanced against the potential benefits in addressing the danger, such as protection against a pest. In making this judgement, the Farming Minister considered the advice from the Health and Safety Executive, the Expert Committee on Pesticides and Defra’s Chief Scientific Adviser.
Emerging sugar beet seedlings are vulnerable to predation from aphids that have the potential to spread beet yellows virus. This can severely affect sugar beet yield and quality. In 2020, around 25% of the national sugar beet crop was lost, which resulted in a total loss of £67 million across an industry that is linked to nearly 10,000 jobs.
I am assured by my ministerial colleagues in Defra that there are strict conditions to the emergency authorisation of Cruiser SB. This includes only allowing for application if independent modelling predicts a virus incidence of 63 per cent or above. This threshold is increased from the level that was applied in 2022. If the virus threshold is not met, then the neonicotinoid treated seed will not be used. I understand that the forecast as to whether the threshold has been met will be made on 1 March and it is only then that it will be confirmed whether the seed treatment will be used this year. In 2021, the model predicted that the virus level would not meet the threshold so the seed treatment was not used.
Finally, I am informed that if the threshold is met and limited use is allowed, then further strict conditions will be applied to minimise risks to the environment. This includes a maximum number of seeds planted per hectare and restrictions on farmers planting flowering crops in the same field within 32 months of a treated sugar beet crop, which will allow time for the chemical to break down.
Unfortunately, due to diary commitments, I was unable to attend the Westminster Hall debate on 1 February. However, I followed the Minister’s comments in the debate closely.
February 2023
Trees and Woodlands
Selaine’s response:
Trees protect us against flooding, provide habitats for our precious wildlife and are carbon capture machines. They are an important source of jobs, directly employing over 30,000 people and contributing more than £2 billion to our economy every year. In the face of climate change and the growing prevalence of pests and diseases, it is essential that we plant more trees and build their resilience.
The England Trees Action Plan 2021 works to ensure that we have 12 per cent woodland cover in England by the middle of the century, supported by over 80 announcements knitting together to create a comprehensive plan of action. Targets through the Environment Act 2021 go further, with the aim to increase total tree and woodland cover from 14.5 per cent of land area to 16.5 per cent. This target is key for the UK’s Net Zero Strategy and to deliver the Government’s manifesto commitment to plant 75,000 acres of trees across the UK.
Ministers will ensure that the right trees are planted in the right places, that trees and woodlands are better protected, that more green jobs are created in the forestry sector and that people have greater access to woodlands.
The Government is spending more than £750 million by 2024-25 through the Nature for Climate Fund to help meet the commitment to increase tree planting, with the aim of planting 30,000 hectares per year by May 2024. I am aware that good progress is being made towards the target, with tree planting and woodland creation increased to around 2,700 hectares in England in 2021-22. Through the Nature for Climate Fund, a major £20 million funding package is being provided, which will fund 100 projects championed by tree nurseries, charities and businesses.
Finally, I welcome that the Local Authority Treescapes Fund and the Urban Tree Challenge Fund will reopen for new applications in early 2023. This will see trees planted in rural areas, as well as in towns and cities.
January 2023
Climate and Ecology Bill
Selaine’s response:
Tackling climate change is a top priority for the Government and as an active member of the Conservative Environment Network living in a beautiful coastal constituency I am committed to leaving the environment in a better state than that in which we found it.
I understand that while Ministers acknowledge the intentions of the Bill, the UK already has a world leading emissions reduction framework in place. The Environment Act 2021 will drive the long term action nature needs to recover through legally binding targets, new policy measures, a new environmental enforcement body, the Office for Environmental Protection, and placing environmental principles in domestic law in a consistent and transparent way. The Act includes a target to halt the decline of species by 2030.
Finally, the UK played a leading role at the UN biodiversity summit, COP15, in December 2022. The agreement made includes a global commitment to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030 and also protect 30% of land and oceans by 2030. This builds on the actions agreed during the UK’s own COP and G7 presidencies, including securing the Leaders Pledge for Nature last year which commits world leaders to taking action to drive sustainable food production, end the illegal wildlife trade and tackle climate change.
January 2023
Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill
Selaine’s response:
I have been assured that Government is committed to maintaining and enhancing workers’ rights following the UK’s departure from the EU. The Working Time Directive has been transposed into UK law through the Working Time Regulations 1998, and under the EU Withdrawal Act 2018 these and other Regulations have been retained.
The regulations provide that, subject to certain exceptions where the nature of the work makes it impractical, employees cannot work more than 48 hours a week averaged, normally, over a period of 17 weeks. It is possible for employees to opt out of this provision voluntarily and in writing, either indefinitely or for a specified period. Employers can request that an employee opts out but cannot terminate their employment or treat them unfairly if they decline. This Bill will benefit people and businesses across the UK.
Moreover, I am assured by my ministerial colleagues that the Bill will not weaken environmental protections and animal welfare. I understand that the Government has said that there has been no change to, and there is no plan to change, any of the legislation related to regulatory testing using animals in the UK. This includes and is not limited to, the Cosmetic Products Enforcement Act (2013), UK REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Registration of Chemicals), and the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act. I am assured that animal testing may be legally performed, as a last resort, where no alternatives exist, where information is required under UK REACH to protect human or animal health and/ or the environment. This could include ingredients for which, at the time of testing, the sole anticipated use is in cosmetic products.
I would like to assure you further that the Government is committed to upholding our world-leading animal welfare standards and to delivering a series of ambitious reforms, as outlined in the Action Plan for Animal Welfare.
More information about the Government’s commitment to upholding only the highest standards can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/action-plan-for-animal-welfare/action-plan-for-animal-welfare
December 2022
Energy and food speculation risks in the Financial Services and Markets Bill
Selaine’s response:
This Bill makes important updates to the UK’s financial services regulations.
While the UK was in the EU, a large portion of the UK’s financial services regulations were made by the EU, and were not tailored to the UK’s needs. Now that the UK has left the EU, we can design our own regulations to fit our needs, which is what this Bill aims to do.
The Financial Services and Markets Bill will ensure exchanges can once again set position limits, within a Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) framework. Exchanges are well placed to ensure that such position limits only apply to contracts that are subject to high volatility.
However, Ministers are clear that agricultural products and other key physically settled contracts such as oil and gas will remain subject to position limits. The FCA will also have powers to intervene to set position limits if need be.
I would like to assure my constituents that the regulators are aware of concerns in this area and the regulations will remain under constant review.
December 2022
Early Years Nutrition
Selaine’s response
I understand the benefits of sensory food play and support the Department for Education’s partnership with TastEd, which is an organisation that gives children the opportunity to experience the joy of fresh vegetables and fruits through delivering sensory food education that follows the National Food Strategy recommendations. The Department has also published guidance for early years settings on how to deliver sensory food education. This can be found here: https://help-for-early-years-providers.education.gov.uk/get-help-to-improve-your-practice/sensory-food-education
I am aware that over 600 schools and nurseries are already signed up to TastEd's programmes and the Government is committed to ensuring that all settings benefit from these lessons.
December 2022
The Energy Charter Treaty and the UK's Climate Goals
Selaine’s response:
The Energy Charter Treaty (ECT), which is the largest international agreement of its kind, continues to play a crucial role in promoting investment in the energy sector and fostering international cooperation on energy, including in the development of renewable energy worldwide.
For the last two years, those party to the ECT have been negotiating its modernisation to ensure that it is aligned with common climate objectives. I am encouraged by the announcement, on 24 June 2022, of an agreement to this end.
It is important to note that, as of today, the UK has never faced an investor-state dispute under the ECT that has proceeded arbitration. However, the new terms of the Treaty, due to be signed in 2022, will limit costly legal challenges from fossil fuel investors in the UK, reducing the risk to British taxpayers and ensuring the benefits of the ECT remain.
Furthermore, the modernised treaty will protect the UK Government’s sovereign right to change its own energy systems to reach emissions reductions targets in line with the Paris Agreement. It has a stronger climate focus, clarifying that states can regulate to reach emissions reductions targets, and includes new protections for green and low-carbon technologies.
The UK tabled terms which mean new investments in all types of fossil fuels lose protection under the ECT following entry into force. Existing investments in fossil fuels will lose protection under the ECT ten years after entry into force of the modernised treaty, except for existing investments in coal which would lose protection from 1 October 2024. This position includes some exceptions for abated gas, which will play a key role in the UK’s net zero transition.
I have been assured the Government is closely monitoring all developments in the ECT and taking these into account in its own interaction with the modernisation process.
December 2022
Antibiotics in Farming
Selaine’s response:
The sale of antibiotics for use in livestock has more than halved since 2014 to the lowest ever level. The Government is committed to building on these record reductions, as outlined in the National Action Plan for Antimicrobial Resistance.
My ministerial colleagues and I would like to see a sustainable reduction of antibiotic use in animals through a combination of approaches, including improved biosecurity, stockmanship and good farming practices, disease prevention (including vaccination) and use of diagnostics. I understand that the Government plans to pay farmers through the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway to tackle anti-microbial resistance.
I am aware that Ministers do not support routine preventative use of antibiotics in animals. Antibiotics should not compensate for poor husbandry practices and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) will continue to look into strengthening legislation in this area. Defra is reviewing the Veterinary Medicines Regulations 2013 and will set out proposed changes as part of a public consultation in due course.
Finally, the Environment Agency (EA) is working with the UK Health Security Agency and the Food Standards Agency to improve our understanding of the extent and risks of antimicrobial resistance in our surface waters under the “PATH-SAFE” project. This includes where the source of resistance is from agricultural activities. £2 million has been received in funding for this work, which aims to identify the levels of antimicrobials in water that may contribute to this resistance. This will allow the EA to advise the Government and farmers on how to avoid environmental risks of antimicrobial resistance.
The Animal Health and Welfare Pathway maps out how farmers and the Government will work together to improve continually the health and welfare of farmed animals, supported by the best science and evidence. The Government has committed to launching four programmes within the Pathway.
The Annual Health and Welfare Review offers funding for a visit by a vet-led team to carry out a yearly on-farm review of animal health and welfare. This includes carrying out diagnostic testing, reviewing biosecurity and the use of medicines, providing bespoke advice on actions to improve the health and welfare. Testing of the first Annual Health and Welfare Reviews started in September and will be open to all eligible farmers. Farmers will also be able to apply for financial support to prevent and reduce endemic diseases and conditions, building on the initial advice given in the Review.
December 2022
School Food
Selaine’s response:
All children should be able to enjoy healthy food at school every day and develop healthy eating habits that will stay with them throughout their lives.
The standards for school food are set out in the Requirements for School Food Regulations 2014 and are to ensure that schools provide children with healthy food and drink options, and to make sure that children get the energy and nutrition they need throughout the school day. These regulate the food and drink provided at both lunchtime and at other times of the school day. The standards set out that meat or poultry must be provided on three or more days each week, and milk must be available for drinking every day.
Current standards provide a robust yet flexible framework to ensure that pupils continue to receive high quality and nutritious food that builds healthy eating habits for life. The Government continues to promote compliance with the School Food Standards and will keep this under review going forward.
In February 2022, the Levelling Up White Paper outlined the Government’s plan to strengthen adherence. This includes piloting work with the Foods Standards Agency, funding of up to £200,000 in a pilot Governor Training Scheme and encouraging schools to complete a statement on their websites setting out their whole school approach to food.
Although the School Food Standards regulate the food and drink provided at both lunchtime and at other times of the school day, the Government believes that head teachers, school governors and caterers are best placed to make decisions about their school food policies, taking into account local circumstances and the needs of their pupils.
Schools should therefore make reasonable adjustments for pupils with particular requirements, such as dietary and cultural needs. The Government is encouraging schools to speak to parents about their school meals provision and act reasonably to ensure it best meets the needs and beliefs of their school community.
December 2022
Trophy Hunting
Selaine’s response:
I appreciate the strength of feeling around this issue. Ministers take the welfare of all animals extremely seriously and are committed to strengthening and supporting long-term conservation of animals both internationally and at home.
In 2019, the Government held a consultation on the scale and impact of the import and export of hunting trophies. Over 44,000 responses to the call for evidence and consultation were received. The Government’s response to the consultation sets out plans to ban imports of hunting trophies from nearly 7,000 endangered and threatened species, including lions, rhinos, elephants, and polar bears. This will be one of the toughest bans in the world and means that the UK will be leading the way in protecting endangered animals.
The Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill was introduced to Parliament as a Private Member’s Bill in June 2022. I am aware that the Bill is due to have its Second Reading on 25 November. I look forward to attending the debate and to supporting this Bill.
November 2022
Kept Animals Bill
Selaine’s response:
The UK has long led the way on animal welfare. I know that Ministers are enhancing our world-leading standards with ambitious reforms, as outlined in the Action Plan for Animal Welfare. The Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill will introduce landmark protections for pets, livestock and kept wild animals. I look forward to supporting the Bill through its parliamentary passage.
The Kept Animals Bill will strengthen domestic animal welfare protection for kept animals by delivering the Government’s manifesto commitments to end the export of live animals for fattening and slaughter, crack down on puppy smuggling, and ban the keeping of primates as pets. It will also update the Zoo Licensing Act, introduce a new pet abduction offence, and reform legislation covering to tackle livestock worrying.
On the issue of puppy smuggling, the Bill reduces the number of pet dogs, cats and ferrets that can be moved under the pet travel rules that apply to non-commercial movements. This will prevent unscrupulous traders from exploiting pet travel rules, making it harder to import large numbers of puppies into Great Britain.
The Bill includes a power to make regulations about the importation of pet animals into Great Britain for the purpose of promoting animal welfare. This will enable Ministers to go further in the future and explore measures such as increasing the minimum age that dogs can be moved into Great Britain, prohibiting the importation of heavily pregnant dams as well as banning the importing of dogs which have been subjected to low welfare practices such as ear cropping or tail docking.
I have signed the Dogs Trust letter to the Prime Minister regarding puppy smuggling, and joined the British Veterinary Association to campaign to bring this legislation forward.
The Kept Animals Bill was carried over into the new parliamentary session following the Queen’s Speech in May this year. I am aware that there is strong support for the Bill and I am assured that it will return to the House as soon as parliamentary time allows.
November 2022
Gene Editing: Animal Welfare
Selaine’s response:
The Government is working to encourage agricultural and scientific innovation in the UK. The Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill will enable the development and marketing of precision bred plants and animals, which will drive economic growth and position the UK as the leading country in which to invest in agri-food research and innovation.
Ministers recognise that there is a need to safeguard animal welfare and that is why the Government is introducing proportionate regulatory measures to ensure that the health and welfare of animals that have been produced through these technologies is protected in line with animal welfare legislation. I am assured that no changes will be made to the regulation of animals under the genetically modified organism (GMO) regime until the regulatory system outlined in the Bill is developed to safeguard animal welfare.
Further, I am aware that before marketing precision bred animals, developers will need to provide assurances to confirm that the welfare of the animal (and its offspring) will not be adversely affected by any trait resulting from precision breeding. This will be in the form of an animal welfare declaration, with accompanying evidence. The Environment Secretary will need to be satisfied with the declaration before issuing a precision bred (PB) animal marketing authorisation, after which point a PB animal can be marketed. This process will also involve an independent scientific assessment of the declaration.
Finally, all animals are protected by comprehensive and robust animal health and welfare legislation. The Animal Welfare Act 2006 makes it an offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to an animal or to fail to provide for its welfare. The Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act 2022 supports ministerial accountability to Parliament in relation to all central Government decisions that might affect the welfare of animals, including those set out in the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill.
November 2022
Plastic Pollution
Selaine’s response:
The Resources and Waste Strategy for England sets out the Government’s plans to reduce, reuse, and recycle more plastic than we do now. Ministers have committed to work towards all plastic packaging placed on the market being recyclable or reusable by 2025.
Significant progress has already been made to address plastic pollution, including a ban on microbeads in rinse-off personal care products and restricting the supply of plastic straws, plastic drink stirrers, and plastic-stemmed cotton buds. The use of single-use carrier bags in the main supermarkets has been reduced by over 97%. The charge for carrier bags was increased to ten pence and extended to all retailers.
The Government is considering proposals to ban single-use plastic plates, cutlery, and balloon sticks, expanded and extruded polystyrene food and beverage containers, as well as other plastic items, including wet wipes and other single-use cups.
The Environment Act requires the Government to set at least one long-term target in the areas of resource efficiency and waste reduction. The Government recently consulted on its target to reduce residual waste. Over 180,000 submissions were received and I look forward to reading the Government’s response.
I understand that setting individual, material-specific legally binding targets, such as a plastics waste reduction target, could risk shifting the environmental impact to other material types and could even lead to increases in residual waste due to switches to heavier materials. Ministers aim to take a holistic approach to all materials and avoid unintended substitution effects. As well as being significant global environmental waste and pollution issue, plastics are strong, durable, and versatile materials, bringing environmental and economic benefits. Setting targets that encourage reductions in our consumption of materials more broadly, not only plastics, will help ensure the best environmental outcome.
Finally, the export of plastic waste is subject to strict controls in legislation. Businesses must ensure that the waste they ship is managed in an environmentally sound manner throughout its shipment and during its recycling. Individuals and businesses found to be exporting waste in contravention of the legislation can face a two-year jail term and an unlimited fine.
The Government wants to deal with more of our waste at home and I understand Ministers committed to banning the export of plastic waste to countries which are not members of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development. The Environment Act contains a power that will enable the Government to deliver on this commitment.
November 2022
Ocean Protection
Selaine’s response:
The UK is a global leader in protecting our seas, the ocean and marine life, and works with counterparts both in the UK and overseas to help achieve these aims.
Since 2019, the United Kingdom has been leading the Global Ocean Alliance of countries championing ambitious ocean action under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), including the target to protect at least 30% of the global ocean by 2030. The United Kingdom also serves as ocean co-chair of the High Ambition Coalition for Nature & People, which champions 30by30 for both the land and the ocean. Between these alliances, over 120 countries have pledged to support the global 30by30 ocean target at the upcoming 15th Conference of Parties to the CBD in December 2022.
I am aware that nearly 8.3% of the global ocean is now protected. Achieving a 30by30 target will require an international effort. The UK is leading the way, with 374 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) now protect 38% of UK waters, which are all subject to planning and licensing regimes to ensure they are protected from harmful activities. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has built a comprehensive network of MPAs and are focusing on making sure they are protected properly.
Following the Benyon Review into Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs), the Government has been working on introducing pilot HPMAs in English waters and recently held a consultation on this. HPMAs provide the highest protection in our seas and will allow full recovery to as most natural a state as possible, as they prohibit all destructive, extractive and depositional activities within the entire site, thus enabling the ecosystem to thrive.
Finally, the UK has also launched the Blue Planet Fund, a commitment of £500 million from the United Kingdom Aid budget to support developing countries protect and sustainably manage their marine resources, including through Marine Protected Areas.
November 2022
Trees and Woodlands
Selaine’s response:
The England Trees Action Plan 2021 works to ensure that we have 12% woodland cover in England by the middle of the century, supported by over 80 announcements knitting together to create a comprehensive plan of action. Recent targets through the Environment Act 2021 go further, with the aim to increase tree canopy and woodland cover from 14.5% to 17.5% of total land area in England by 2050.
The Government is spending more than £750 million by 2024-25 through the Nature for Climate Fund to help meet the commitment to increase tree planting, with the aim of planting 30,000 hectares per year by May 2024. I am aware that good progress is being made towards the target, with tree planting and woodland creation increased to around 2,700 hectares in England in 2021-22.
Ministers will ensure that the right trees are planted in the right places, that trees and woodlands are better protected, that more green jobs are created in the forestry sector and that people have greater access to woodlands.
From the Nature for Climate Fund, investments will support the creation and management of woodland, including the Woodland Creation Partnerships, the Urban Tree Challenge Fund and a Local Authority Treescape Fund. Ministers plan to create at least three new community forests which, together with existing community forests, will enable the establishment of 6,000 hectares of new woodland around our towns and cities by 2025.
The Government will also create a new Centre for Forest Protection and develop a Woodland Resilience Implementation Plan to improve the ecological condition of woodlands, as well as publish a new Great Britain Plant Biosecurity Strategy by 2022.
I understand that over £44 million of funding is being provided to support the creation of larger and more diverse woodlands, which will be more resilient to climate change and extreme weather events, such as wildfires and storms. Around 2,300 hectares of trees, equivalent to around 3,220 football pitches, will be planted, which will see approximately 600,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide absorbed by 2050. This funding will also be used to create more green jobs within the forestry sector, providing new opportunities for local communities to access nature and create more places for nature and biodiversity to thrive.
I am also aware that a diverse range of woodland projects across England have recently received £6 million from the Trees Call to Action Fund to help create forestry jobs and improve access to nature. These include six new Woodland Creation Partnerships enabling large-scale woodland creation across rural and urban areas; two projects growing and upskilling the forestry sector workforce; and three projects encouraging community engagement with and access to trees and woodlands. Investment in woodland creation is key to protecting our natural environment and achieving net zero emissions by 2050 and these projects will encourage woodland creation and bring people closer to nature.
October 2022
Farmed Fish
Selaine’s response:
The Animal Welfare Act 2006 makes it an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to any protected animal, or to fail to provide for the welfare needs of an animal, including fish. Regulations also require that farmed fish are spared avoidable pain, distress or suffering during their killing and related operations.
I am aware that Regulation 1099/2009 on the protection of animals at the time of killing requires that farmed fish are spared avoidable pain, distress or suffering during their killing and related operations but does not include any further requirements. The Welfare of Animals at the Time of Killing (England) Regulations 2015 makes it an offence for any person engaged in the restraint, stunning or killing of an invertebrate to cause avoidable pain, distress or suffering.
As part of the Government’s Action Plan for Animal Welfare, Ministers have been considering a number of improvements that could be made to the welfare of farmed fish at the time of killing and asked the Animal Welfare Committee to update its 2014 Opinion on the welfare of farmed fish at the time of killing and I look forward to reading their report in due course.
Finally, I am aware that any allegations of welfare or health issues will be investigated by the Animal and Plant Health Agency and Cefas. Appropriate action is taken against anyone who breaks the law when non-compliances are disclosed.
October 2022
Animal Welfare Legislation
Selaine’s response:
I would like to assure you that the Government is committed to upholding our world-leading animal welfare standards and to delivering a series of ambitious reforms, as outlined in the Action Plan for Animal Welfare.
The Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act, which completed its passage into law in April, enshrines in domestic law the recognition that animals are sentient and creates an expert Animal Sentience Committee to review policy decisions relating to animal welfare.
Introduced to Parliament in June 2021, the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill will introduce new restrictions on pet travel and on the commercial import of pets on welfare grounds. The Government is reviewing consultation responses on further proposals to eliminate this illegal trade and aims to deliver the necessary secondary legislation alongside the passage of the Bill. In addition, the export of livestock and equines for slaughter and fattening from, or transiting through, Great Britain to anywhere outside the British Islands will be banned.
Further, the Kept Animals Bill will also ban keeping primates as pets and improve zoo regulations, as well as creating new police powers to protect livestock from dangerous dogs. Further, I am aware that a new offence of taking and detaining a dog was added to the Bill at Committee Stage in the House of Commons, with a power to extend to other pets, if necessary. This Bill was carried over into the new parliamentary session and will return to the House as soon as parliamentary time allows.
Finally, the Government is firmly committed to delivering one of the toughest bans in the world on the import of hunting trophies from nearly seven thousand endangered and threatened species. This will see the UK leading the way in protecting endangered animals and strengthening long-term conservation. The Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill was recently introduced to Parliament. I know that Ministers are also looking to protect animals abroad, including those used in low welfare animal experiences.
October 2022
Sustainable Fishing
Selaine’s response:
The Fisheries Act enshrines in law the Government’s commitment to sustainable fishing through its objectives and fisheries statements and through the new legal commitment to produce Fisheries Management Plans (FMPs) to restore our fish stocks to sustainable levels. The Act contains a ‘bycatch objective’ seeking to reduce the wasteful practice of discarding fish, an ‘ecosystem objective’ to minimise and, where possible, eliminate negative impacts on marine ecosystems and a new ‘climate change objective’ which recognises and seeks to reduce the impact of fishing on the health of our oceans and our planet.
The UK is a global leader in protecting the ocean and our marine life across the UK, and 374 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) now protect 38% of UK waters. I am aware that these areas are all subject to planning and licensing regimes to ensure they are protected from damaging activities and further plans to manage fishing activity in them continue to be developed. The Government’s £500 million Blue Planet Fund will help some of the world’s poorest communities to protect the ocean from plastic pollution, overfishing and habitat loss. In August 2021, Ministers announced the first five programmes under the Blue Planet Fund totalling £16.2 million of funding.
The draft Joint Fisheries Statement (JFS) commits the UK Government and Devolved Administrations to work together to adopt an ‘ecosystem-based approach’ to fisheries that will underpin a vibrant, profitable fishing industry that is resilient to climate change. The JFS includes a list of proposed Fisheries Management Plans (FMPs) that will be published by the UK Administrations. FMPs are a cornerstone of the Government’s approach to fisheries management now that the UK has left the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy.
I am aware that the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has developed an ambitious programme for assessing sites and implementing byelaws to manage fishing activity in all English offshore Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). In inshore waters, 98 MPAs already have management in place to protect sensitive habitats from bottom towed fishing gear. I understand that the first four offshore byelaws are now in force and plans are in place to protect all offshore sites by the end of 2024, using powers in the Fisheries Act.
Byelaws are developed using an evidence-led process to determine what measures are required to protect sites. Site by site assessments are carried out to tailor management measures and to avoid unnecessary restrictions on fishing. Only fishing activities which could damage the protected features of an MPA require management, such as trawling on the seabed. I am assured that the MMO and Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities will always manage any fishing activity that is found to be negatively impacting the protected features of MPAs.
The MMO recently launched a call for evidence on its draft fisheries assessment for the next 13 offshore MPAs. Ministers are considering policies for large pelagic trawlers and flyseining, working with the industry to develop more robust management of the non-quota species which these vessels are targeting, as well as quota stocks.
September 2022
Deposit Return Scheme
Selaine’s response:
The Resources and Waste Strategy sets out the Government’s plans to reduce, reuse, and recycle more than we do now. I know the Government’s target is to eliminate all avoidable plastic waste throughout the life of the 25 Year Environment Plan.
The Environment Act 2021 includes new powers to introduce a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) for drinks containers. This will recycle billions more plastic bottles and stop them being landfilled or littered. I believe that this will help to change consumer behaviours with potential knock-on effects to other environmental activities.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has now consulted twice on introducing a DRS in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, with the most recent consultation held in 2021. This second consultation has closed and Government is analysing the responses to that consultation. In March, details of the scope of the scheme were announced, and Defra continues to work on finalising the remainder of the policy with a view to publishing a full Government response soon. An impact assessment for the introduction of the scheme will also be published.
I understand that Ministers anticipate that the introduction of a DRS in England, Wales and Northern Ireland would be in late 2024 at the earliest, subject to the outcome of the second consultation. This presents a realistic yet ambitious timetable to ensure that Defra is implementing a DRS that will be as effective as possible in achieving the UK’s objectives of boosting recycling levels, offering greater opportunities to collect higher quality, uncontaminated materials in greater quantities, thus promoting a circular economy and reducing littering.
More widely, the Government introduced one of the world’s toughest bans on microbeads in rinse-off personal care products in 2018 and brought in measures to ban plastic straws, stirrers and cotton buds in 2020. The use of single-use carrier bags has reduced by 97% since the introduction of the 5p charge and ministers increased the charge to 10p and extended it to all retailers in May 2021.
I will continue to push government to go further and faster to improve our recycling schemes and reduce litter on our beautiful beaches.
September 2022
Animal Testing
Selaine’s response:
Please note that I do not sign any Early Day Motions (EDMs). These have no chance of becoming law, and according to the House of Commons Library, cost £271 each to publish. I do not feel that this is a good use of taxpayer’s money, nor do I feel that this is an effective way to raise an issue in Parliament.
I continue to raise my constituents’ concerns with Ministers privately and in Parliament to ensure that North Devon is represented in the most appropriate way. I also feel that EDMs have also been superseded by e-petitions, which can be signed by everyone, and have much more success in raising awareness of different issues.
Animal research plays a vital role in providing safety information for potential new medicines. It is worth remembering that, as a result of findings from animal studies, a large number of potential new drugs never get as far as being tested in humans. Some aspects of the toxicological assessment of new medicines cannot be adequately assessed in humans, and animal data will be the only kind available.
I would like to reassure you that the UK's rigorous regulatory system ensures that no animal testing or research takes place if there is a non-animal alternative that would achieve the scientific outcomes sought. The National Centre for the 3Rs (NC3Rs) is the UK’s leading scientific based organisation dedicated to replacing, refining and reducing the use of animals in scientific research and testing. The NC3Rs supports the research community to use the latest science and technology to replace animal studies, providing new approaches for biomedical research and avoiding the time and cost associated with animal models.
Since the NC3Rs was launched in 2004, the Government has invested £77 million in research towards developing new approaches to Replace, Reduce and Refine the use of animals in scientific procedures, and an additional £32 million through its CRACK IT programme for SMEs and universities to work with the pharmaceutical and chemical industries on collaborative 3Rs projects that aim to generate commercial opportunities in this area.
Without animal testing it is highly likely that a large number of potentially dangerous new medicines would be tested in healthy volunteers and patients in clinical trials. This would be completely unacceptable. That said, I welcome the Government's commitment to the development of non-animal technologies. Such technologies have the potential to reduce the reliance on the use of animals, improve the efficiency of drug research and development and to deliver safer, cheaper, and more effective medicines to patients. Ministers have also stressed that they continue to actively support and fund the development and dissemination of techniques that replace, reduce, and refine the use of animals in research.
I am aware that EDM 223 calls for the creation of a specific Ministerial responsibility for the eradication of the use of animals in science. For the reasons I have already outlined, I will not be signing this particular EDM and additionally I do not believe it is a desirable course of action on the grounds of public safety. I am, however, reassured that the there are stringent measures in place to minimise the suffering of animals in science.
September 2022
Gamebird Battery Cages
Selaine’s response:
I know that my ministerial colleagues are committed to maintaining this country’s position as world leaders in farm animal welfare and want to improve and build upon that record, working in partnership with farmers to support healthier, higher welfare animals.
Further, as set out in the Government’s recently published Action Plan for Animal Welfare, ministers are actively exploring options for strengthening the UK system moving forward and I am aware that they are examining the evidence around the use of cages in farming, including their use for breeding and rearing of gamebirds. I understand that ministers expect to call for evidence later this year on gamebird welfare, including the use of cages in the sector.
As you may know, the welfare of gamebirds is protected by the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which makes it an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to any animal. The Statutory Code of Practice for the Welfare of Gamebirds Reared for Sporting Purposes offers additional protection and provides keepers with guidance on how to meet the welfare needs of their gamebirds as required by the 2006 Act.
Specifically, the code states that barren raised cages for breeding pheasants and small barren cages for breeding partridges should not be used and that any system should be appropriately enriched. The code also advises that the use of management devices, such as spectacles and bits, should not be considered as routine, as they do not allow birds fully to express their range of normal behaviours.
Finally, I am assured that the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) carry out targeted inspections on gamebird breeding and rearing units in response to intelligence received. Intelligence led monitoring and offering advice on compliance are key components of all APHA inspections. Where welfare regulations are breached, appropriate action is always taken.
August 2022
Bread and Flour Regulations
Selaine’s response:
I am aware that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), alongside the Department of Health and Social Care, the Food Standards Agency in Northern Ireland and Wales, Food Standards Scotland and the Scottish and Welsh Governments, have been conducting jointly a review of The Bread and Flour Regulations 1998 and The Bread and Flour (Northern Ireland) Regulations 1998 to ensure the regulations are fit for purpose and support UK industry while protecting consumers.
To assist with the review, I understand that Defra convened a technical working group made up of a wide range of relevant stakeholders including the Real Bread Campaign, to help identify and explore the issues around the regulations which cover the compositional requirements of bread and flour.
I know that the Government is preparing to consult jointly on proposals to update the Bread and Flour Regulations 1998. The consultation is subject to a cross-government agreement process in England and ministerial agreement in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. I understand that it is not possible to say definitively what will be included in the consultation, but I know that Defra hopes to be able to publish these proposals shortly.
July 2022
Climate Briefing
Selaine's response:
Thank you to those constituents who contacted me about climate change and the briefing on the climate emergency by Sir Patrick Vallance. Climate change is one of the greatest challenges we face, and please be assured I recognise the importance and urgency of action on this issue.
A report from the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change found that the world is warming faster than previously anticipated and climate change is already affecting every single region of our planet. This stark report must be met with immediate global action to limit warming, heatwaves, heavy precipitation, droughts, and loss of Arctic Sea ice, snow cover and permafrost.
I am glad that the UK, which is continuing to play a world leading role in tackling climate change, was the first G7 country to legislate to achieve net zero by 2050, and we are decarbonising faster than any G20 country. In addition, we have set ambitious climate targets in law, such as a commitment to reduce emissions by 68% by 2030, and also to reduce emissions by 78% by 2035, both compared to 1990 levels.
The UK accounts for approximately 1.2% of global emissions and global action is required to tackle climate change. When the UK took on the COP26 Presidency, in partnership with Italy, only 30% of the world was covered by net zero targets. This figure is now at around 90%.
I am assured that the assessment of the independent Committee on Climate Change (CCC) has concluded that the target of achieving net zero emissions is feasible, deliverable and can be met within the same cost as was estimated for our previous target of 80% which was set back in 2008, such has been the power of innovation in reducing costs. While I appreciate your concerns about the energy price cap increase, I would like to assure you that the Government remains committed to its climate change targets.
I am strongly encouraged by the progress and agreements achieved at COP26 in Glasgow in November 2021. The Glasgow Climate Pact calls on countries to accelerate efforts towards the phase down of unabated coal power and phase out of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, while providing targeted support to the poorest and most vulnerable in line with national circumstances and recognising the need for support towards a just transition.
Furthermore, the Glasgow Climate Pact will speed up the pace of climate action. All countries agreed to revisit and strengthen their current emissions targets to 2030 in 2022. This will be combined with a yearly political roundtable to consider a global progress report and a Leaders summit in 2023.
The 2021 Spring Budget reinforced the UK’s strong track record in this area, with announcements including £640 million for tree planting and peatland restoration, over £1 billion to support the transition to electric vehicles, at least doubling funding for energy innovation, and tax measures to reduce plastic waste, among other measures. The Chancellor also announced £15 billion of green gilt issuance to help support vital projects to tackle climate change, to fund critical infrastructure investment, and create green jobs across the UK.
In addition, the Prime Minister's Ten Point Plan lays the blueprint for how we will achieve net zero. The plan will mobilise £12 billion of Government investment to create and support up to 250,000 highly skilled green jobs in the UK, and spur over three times as much private sector investment by 2030. Included in the plan is £160 million investment into offshore wind which will create 60,000 jobs, a commitment to produce enough offshore wind to power every home, quadrupling how much the UK produces to 40GW by 2030.
The recently-published Net Zero Strategy builds on the Ten Point Plan and sets out the Government’s long-term plan to finish the job of cutting emissions by 2050. I welcome that the strategy includes details on how the Government will build a secure, home-grown energy sector which ends the UK's dependency on volatile foreign gas prices, which will help protect consumers and businesses. I am glad that, by 2035, the UK will be powered entirely by clean electricity, subject to security of supply. At the same time, the Environment Act 2021 has passed which protects and improves the environment for future generations, enshrining in law environmental principles and legally-binding targets.
I welcome that all MPs will be offered a briefing on the climate emergency by Sir Patrick Vallance, and will ensure I follow this closely. The next decade will be decisive and every country, government, business and citizen must come together to tackle this huge threat to our planet and humanity.
July 2022
Bearskin Caps
Selaine’s response:
I am aware of the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals’ (PETA) ongoing campaign to replace the real fur used in the bearskin Queen’s Guards ceremonial caps with faux fur and the corresponding debate scheduled for 11 July.
Although I am unable to attend debate in question due to other Parliamentary duties, I will ensure to follow this matter closely.
I am assured that bears are never hunted to order for use by the MOD. Bear pelts that are used for the Queen’s Guards ceremonial caps are the byproducts of a necessary cull, licenced by Canadian authorities as part of a programme to manage the wild bear population, as opposed to fur being harvested from an animal being bred for this sole purpose. Therefore, any reduction in the number of bearskins procured by the MOD would not equate to a reduction in the numbers of bears being culled.
Guardsmen take great pride in wearing the bearskin cap which is an iconic image of Britain. It must look smart but also be practical for the guardsman to wear in wet or dry weather. While I understand that a man-made fabric manufactured by Ecopel was passed to an independent testing house, and PETA shared these results with the MOD, MOD analysis of the results shows that the faux fur does not in fact reach the standards needed to provide an effective replacement for the caps. The faux fur met only one of the five requirements to be considered as a viable alternative for ceremonial caps, as reiterated by MOD Minister of State Baroness Goldie on 23 May.
Whilst it met the basic standard for water absorption, it showed unacceptable rates of water shedding and performed poorly on the visual assessment. As the artificial fur sadly didn't meet the standards required for a ceremonial cap which is worn throughout the year and in all weathers, the MOD has no plans to take this faux fur forward.
June 2022
Whip in Horseracing
Selaine’s response:
I would like to assure constituents that the Government shares the public’s high regard for animal welfare, including the welfare of racehorses. The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) is responsible for the safety of racehorses at British racecourses and works alongside the RSPCA and World Horse Welfare to make horseracing as safe as possible.
The racing industry’s independent Horse Welfare Board (HWB) was formed in 2019 and includes members from across the racing industry, veterinarians and animal health and welfare experts. I am aware that the HWB recommended that the penalties for the improper use of the whip should be increased in its 2020 publication ‘A Life Well Lived’.
The irresponsible use of the whip is unacceptable and I understand from the BHA that if the rules on the use of the whip in horseracing are breached, then stewards will review the ride and, if required, hand out penalties which are strict in order to act as a deterrent. In 2021, the BHA launched an open consultation on the use of the whip in British racing and I look forward to reading the conclusions of this consultation.
More broadly, I know that officials from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) will continue to engage with the sector to ensure that both the welfare of racehorses and reducing fatalities and injuries that result from racing remain at the forefront of the BHA’s priorities in delivering the plan’s outcomes. Defra will be monitoring closely how the industry responds to the Board’s recommendations so that the welfare needs of racehorses are met both during and after their racing lives.
Finally, I would encourage anyone with evidence that a racehorse has suffered unnecessarily from being whipped to report it to the local authorities.
June 2022
Gene Editing
Selaine’s response:
The Government is working to encourage agricultural and scientific innovation in the UK. The Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill will enable the development and marketing of precision bred plants and animals, which will drive economic growth and position the UK as the leading country in which to invest in agri-food research and innovation.
Ministers recognise that there is a need to safeguard animal welfare and that is why the Government is taking a step-by-step approach with creating enabling legislation for precision bred plants first and then animals. I am assured that no changes will be made to the regulation of animals under the genetically modified organism (GMO) regime until the regulatory system outlined in the Bill is developed to safeguard animal welfare.
Further, I am aware that before marketing precision bred animals, developers will need to provide assurances to confirm that the welfare of the animal (and its offspring) will not be adversely affected by any trait resulting from precision breeding. This will be in the form of an animal welfare declaration, with accompanying evidence. The Environment Secretary will need to be satisfied with the declaration before issuing a precision bred (PB) animal marketing authorisation, after which point a PB animal can be marketed. This process will also involve an independent scientific assessment of the declaration.
Finally, all animals are protected by comprehensive and robust animal health and welfare legislation. The Animal Welfare Act 2006 makes it an offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to an animal or to fail to provide for its welfare.
June 2022
Kept Animals Bill
Selaine’s response:
The UK has long led the way on animal welfare. I know that ministers are enhancing our world-leading standards with ambitious reforms, as outlined in the Action Plan for Animal Welfare. The Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill will introduce some landmark protections for pets, livestock and kept wild animals. I look forward to supporting the Bill through its parliamentary passage.
Primates are highly intelligent, complex animals that require specialist care. Through the Bill, the Government will meet its manifesto commitment to ban keeping primates as pets, creating a rigorous licensing scheme to ensure higher protections for all primates kept privately in England. The Bill will update the Zoo Licensing Act 1981 to improve enforcement and strengthen conservation requirements for zoos.
Live animals can suffer distress and injury during excessively long export journeys. EU rules prevented any changes to these journeys, but the UK Government is now able to ban the export of live animals for slaughter and fattening. This Bill will ensure that the UK is the first European country to end this practice.
The Bill will also tackle puppy smuggling by reducing the number of pets, including dogs, cats and ferrets permitted to travel. The Bill enables the Environment Secretary to regulate the importation of cats, dogs and ferrets for the purpose of promoting their welfare. Further restrictions could include raising the minimum age that pets can travel into Great Britain and banning the import of dogs with mutilations such as cropped ears and docked tails. The Bill will introduce a new pet abduction offence to reflect the value that we all place on our pets.
I am aware that the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill has been carried over into the new parliamentary session and will return to the House as soon as parliamentary time allows.
June 2022
Plastic Target
Selaine’s response:
The Environment Act requires the Government to set at least one long term, legally binding target within a number of the highest priority areas for environmental improvement, including Resource Efficiency and Waste Reduction. Draft regulations setting this target will be laid before Parliament by October 2022. These targets will be set following a robust, evidence-led process that includes seeking independent expert advice, a role for stakeholders and the public, and approval from Parliament subject to the affirmative procedure. Ministers want to set a Resources and Waste target that ensures a holistic approach to all materials, and they believe that setting a wider reaching target that encompasses plastics as well as other materials will achieve the best environmental outcome. The Government recently consulted on the first suite of targets, including resource efficiency and waste reduction, and is currently analysing the responses.
These measures, alongside others within the Act, form a package of powers that will help incentivise and shift the market towards more reusable alternatives. This will make both businesses and citizens more aware of the environmental costs of the products they use. I am assured that ministers will continue to review the latest evidence in partnership with stakeholders, including the Waste and Resources Action Programme and the UK Plastics Pact, on problematic products to take a systematic approach to reducing the use of unnecessary single-use plastic items.
June 2022
Caged Farm Animals
Selaine’s response:
I would like to assure the constituents of North Devon that I take the welfare of all animals very seriously. I know that the Government is committed to maintaining our world leading farm animals welfare standards, and ministers will deliver a series of ambitious reforms, as outlined in the Action Plan for Animal Welfare.
One of the ways in which the Government wishes to improve the welfare of farm animals is strengthening protections against animal confinement, and I know that the Government is actively exploring options to phase out the use of cages in farming, including enriched cages for laying hens, farrowing crates for pigs and cages for breeding pheasants and partridges.
I am aware of an e-petition calling for the end the use of cages for farmed animals. I understand that a Westminster Hall debate has been scheduled on the subject on 20 June 2022, and I will follow this debate closely.
Further, the Government’s Animal Health and Welfare Pathway will prioritise areas for further improvement in the health and welfare for pigs, cattle, sheep and poultry. One of the Pathway’s prioritises will be to support a transition away from enriched cages for laying hens.
More broadly, I am aware that ministers are taking action to improve the health and wellbeing of farm animals through the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill, which will ban exports of livestock and equines for slaughter and fattening.
May 2022
Dangerous Dogs Act
Selaine’s response:
As a dog owner myself, I appreciate the depth of concern about this issue. Under the Dangerous Dogs Act, it is a criminal offence to allow any dog of any breed or type to be dangerously out of control. It also prohibits certain types of dog that are considered a serious risk to public safety. These specific types of dogs are: Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino and Fila Brasileiro. It is for a court to decide if a prohibited dog can be kept by someone once it has considered the dog’s temperament, among other issues. Conviction under this Act can lead to a prison sentence or a disqualification order which prevents the owner from keeping dogs for a certain period of time.
Recently, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) commissioned research from Middlesex University into dog attacks. This research aimed to assess the effectiveness of current dog control measures, identify and examine the factors and situations that may cause dog attacks, and consider how to promote responsible dog ownership.
I understand that this research did not specifically extend to considering the merits of breed specific legislation. However, it makes reference to the fact that some literature suggests breed specific legislation is not effective and highlights that some academic studies suggest dog breed is not a major risk factor. The report’s conclusion is that while there is no single risk factor when it comes to dog attacks, there are improvements that can be made to prevent attacks, particularly around early intervention and enforcement.
I am aware of an e-petition calling for breed specific legislation to be repealed. I understand that a Westminster Hall debate has been scheduled on the subject on 6 June 2022. I will follow this debate closely.
I am aware that the recommendations in the report included the statutory recording of dog attack incidents, improving the quality and availability of dog training, addressing inconsistent approaches to dog enforcement, and a register for dog owners. This could ensure that people with offences could be struck off the register and not allowed to keep dogs in the future.
I welcome that the report’s recommendations will provide the basis for consideration of further reform in the area. I understand that officials will set up a steering group with the police and stakeholders to consider these recommendations further and I will consider carefully any developments stemming from this.
May 2022
Onshore Wind
Selaine’s response:
The United Kingdom was the first major economy to legislate for net zero carbon emissions and I am encouraged that, since 2000, the UK has decarbonised faster than any other G7 country.
I understand onshore wind is a key part of the Government’s strategy for low-cost decarbonisation of the energy sector. Achieving net zero by 2050 will require increased deployment across a range of technologies, including onshore wind.
It is for this reason I welcome, that, as part of the new Energy Security Strategy, the Government will be consulting on developing partnerships with a limited number of supportive communities who wish to host new onshore wind infrastructure in return for guaranteed lower energy bills. In addition, I am encouraged that onshore wind prices are down 50% since 2013.
The Energy White Paper stated that there will need to be sustained growth in the capacity of onshore wind over the next decade alongside solar and offshore wind. Therefore, I was glad that in March 2020 the Government announced that onshore wind and other established renewable technologies such as solar PV will be able to compete in the latest Contracts for Difference (CfD) allocation round. The round is now open and will aim to deliver up to double the renewable capacity of the last successful round in 2019 with £285 million a year.
Furthermore, the Hydrogen Strategy made clear that Scotland has a key role to play in the development of a UK hydrogen economy, with the potential to produce industrial-scale quantities of hydrogen from offshore and onshore wind resources, wave and tidal power, as well as with Carbon Capture Usage and Storage. The Energy Security Strategy also indicates that there will be 12,000 jobs in the UK hydrogen industry by 2030, 3,000 more than previously expected.
Offshore and onshore wind developers are required to carry out an Environmental Impact Assessment as part of any planning application. The Environmental Impact Assessment seeks to protect the environment by ensuring that the planning authority considers any significant effects as part of the decision making process and that the local community are informed of any impacts.
For onshore wind projects in England, the local authority is the primary decision maker for all sizes of schemes. Planning tests were introduced in 2015 that ensure that local communities have the final say on onshore wind farm developments. This means that a local community can raise concerns based on the publicly available information in the Environmental Impact Assessment, and a development cannot be granted permission if these concerns have not been addressed.
I will continue to monitor any future developments closely.
May 2022
Animal Welfare Commitments
Selaine’s response:
The UK has some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world and it is right that we continue to raise the bar.
I know that ministers are committed to legislation to ban the import of hunting trophies from thousands of species. This will be one of the toughest bans in the world, and goes beyond the Government’s manifesto commitment, meaning that the UK will be leading the way in protecting endangered animals and helping to strengthen and support long term conservation. I understand that this will be brought forward as soon as parliamentary time allows.
Regarding foie gras, I am aware that the production of force fed foie gras raises welfare concerns. This practice is already banned in England and Wales under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. I understand that ministers are now able to consider any further steps that could be taken in relation to foie gras that is produced overseas using force feeding practices. The Government is working to build a clear evidence base to inform decisions on the import or sale of foie gras.
Finally, I know that fur farming has been banned in the UK for 20 years and there are already restrictions on some skin and fur products which may never be legally imported into the UK. The Government’s call for evidence to seek views and evidence on the current fur sector will be used to inform future decisions on the fur trade. I understand that ministers are reviewing the evidence gathered and I look forward to reading the response when it is published.
May 2022
Big Plastic Count
Selaine’s response:
The Resources and Waste Strategy for England sets out the Government’s plans to reduce, reuse, and recycle more plastic than we do now. I am glad that ministers have committed to work towards all plastic packaging placed on the market being recyclable or reusable by 2025.
I welcome the significant progress that has already been made to address plastic pollution. This includes introducing one of the world’s toughest bans on microbeads in rinse off personal care products and bringing in measures to restrict the supply of plastic straws, plastic drink stirrers, and plastic-stemmed cotton buds. The use of single-use carrier bags has been reduced in the main supermarkets by over 95 per cent with the 5p charge. I know that this has been increased to 10p and extended it to all retailers.
The Government recently consulted on proposals to ban the supply of single-use plastic plates, cutlery, and balloon sticks, and expanded and extruded polystyrene food and beverage containers, including cups. I am encouraged that ministers are committed to going further and addressing other sources of plastic pollution and ran a call for evidence to gather information on other problematic plastic items, including wet wipes, tobacco filters, sachets, and other single-use cups.
Further, the Environment Act 2021 includes a raft of new powers to address plastic pollution and litter, including a Deposit Return Scheme for drinks containers, which will recycle billions more plastic bottles and stop them being landfilled or littered. The Extended Producer Responsibility scheme for packaging will make manufacturers responsible for the full net cost of recycling their packaging waste and encourage more recyclable packaging. In addition, the Act establishes greater consistency in the recycling system and introduces new powers to make it easier to place charges on single-use plastic items that threaten our ecosystems.
Unfortunately I am unable to commit to the full Plastic Count week due to other Parliamentary commitments, however I encourage constituent to sign up as the data which will be generated from this campaign will help us further tackle plastic waste.
May 2022
Peat
Selaine’s response:
Peatlands are an iconic feature of our landscapes and are the UK’s largest stores of carbon. They also provide vital ecosystem services, supplying over a quarter of the UK’s drinking water, decreasing flood risk, and providing food and shelter for rare wildlife. When peat is extracted or becomes degraded, the carbon stored inside the bog is released as carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change. With only 13% of them in a near natural state, I welcome that the Government’s 2021 England Peat Action Plan sets out how it intends to restore, sustainably manage, and protect our peatlands.
I know that peat is extracted in the UK for primarily horticultural purposes. I welcome the Government’s consultation on peat in horticulture in England and Wales, asking for views on new measures to end the use of peat and peat containing products in horticulture in England and Wales, including a ban on the retail sale of peat by the end of this Parliament. I am aware that this consultation also examines other measures, including mandatory annual reporting of peat sale volumes and the feasibility of introducing a point of sale charge for the purchase of growing media containing peat. It considers potential exemptions, including for scientific purposes and a maximum of peat allowed in certain products. I look forward to reading the Government’s response to the consultation soon.
I am glad that in the Government’s Net Zero Strategy, there is the commitment to aim to restore approximately 280,000 hectares of peatland in England by 2050. The Government has increased funding to the Nature for Climate Fund to over £750 million by 2024-25, working towards its ambition to restore 35,000 hectares of peatland across England and treble woodland creation rates, by 2025.
Finally, I am encouraged that ministers are exploring future funding options through the development of our environmental land management schemes, including learning from the recommendations of the Lowland Peat Agricultural Taskforce.
Please not I am the Parliamentary Private Secretary at DEFRA, so I work alongside ministers.
April 2022
ASRU Change Programme
Selaine’s response:
A number of constituents have raised concerns with me regarding the ASRU (Animals in Science Regulation Unit) Change Programme, and the impact it might have on animal welfare standards. Let me assure that I, and my colleagues, take the issue of animal welfare extremely seriously and I am proud to have supported a legislative agenda so focused on further raising standards for the treatment of animals.
I welcome that there are stringent provisions already in place to ensure compliance with the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA). This Act makes provision for the protection of animals used for experimental or other scientific purposes. It also adopts the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction and Refinement) principle which seeks to use experimental procedures which either replace the use of animals, reduce the number of animals used, or refine how the animals are treated during the process.
The ASRU is responsible for the administration and enforcement of ASPA, which includes providing advice on the regulations, operating the licence system, and ensuring the compliance of licence holders and the terms of their licenses. Regarding the Change Programme, I have been assured that its core aim is to better align ASRUs activities to deliver its purpose of protecting animals in science by maintaining compliance with ASPA. The benefits of the programme include increased efficiency and more effective delivery of outcomes and services.
Furthermore, the Animal Welfare and Ethical Review Body (AWERB) is an essential part of establishment governance to ensure compliance with ASPA. All applicants for a new project licence must be evaluated by the local Animal Welfare Ethical Review Body which is constituted to advise on how effectively the applicant is applying the 3Rs.
April 2022
Green New Deal
Selaine’s response:
I note that the Green New Deal Campaign seeks to expand the public sector to create unionised green jobs in sectors including green tech, manufacturing, care, education, climate adaptation, transport and housing. I note that the Opposition previously suggested nationalising various sectors and industries, including energy, water, Royal Mail and rail companies. This was estimated to cost £196 billion.
I strongly feel that government investment is best used helping support the private sector which, in turn, creates jobs and drives further private investment. For example, the Ten Point Plan will mobilise £12 billion of government investment and potentially three times as much from the private sector, to create and support up to 250,000 green jobs. This investment will drive innovation and lead to significant improvements in green technology which may benefit housing, transport, education, care and manufacturing.
The campaign also encourages re-training and support for those who work in fossil fuel heavy industries. I am encouraged that the North Sea Transition Deal will be a key components in ensuring the oil and gas sector work with the Government over the long-term to deliver the skills, innovation and new infrastructure required to decarbonise North Sea production, as well as other carbon intensive industries.
I note that the campaign also seeks to set legally binding targets. However, the UK has already set ambitious interim targets, including a 68% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, compared to 1990 levels, and a 78% reduction in emissions by 2035, also compared to 1990 levels. These targets commit build on the Ten Point Plan and put the UK firmly on the path to net zero by 2050, leading the way in tackling climate change globally.
Furthermore, the Government also amended the Environment Act 2021 to include a new, historic, legally binding target on species abundance for 2030 to halt the decline of nature, and to address the unacceptable amount of sewage discharged by water companies into our river. You can take part in the consultation about proposals to change whether a river or stream is designated as a main river by following the link below:
Statutory Main Rivers proposal for factual change: various areas across England - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
The Green Jobs Taskforce was established to help the Government better understand how the UK could grasp opportunities of the Green Industrial Revolution. The findings and recommendations from the taskforce have helped develop and inform the Net Zero Strategy. In the strategy, the Government announced its ambition to support up to 440,000 jobs across net zero industries in 2030, contributing towards a broader pivot to a greener economy which could support 2 million jobs in green sectors or by greening existing sectors. I am encouraged that the Government will work with business to grow green industries, supply chains and skills in the UK, and ensure resilience to international changes in supply chains.
Finally, I was strongly encouraged by the progress and agreements achieved at COP26 in Glasgow in November 2021. The Glasgow Climate Pact calls on countries to accelerate efforts towards the phase down of unabated coal power and phase out of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, while providing targeted support to the poorest and most vulnerable in line with national circumstances and recognising the need for support towards a just transition.
I hope this response provides reassurance that the Government is continuing to reduce emissions and tackle climate change as we work towards net zero.
March 2022
Puppy Smuggling
Selaine’s response:
I take the issue of illegal dog and puppy imports very seriously. This abhorrent trade causes suffering to the smuggled dogs and puts health at risk.
I am encouraged by the UK's long history of leading the way on animal welfare and I know that the Government is committed to improving our already world-leading standards through a series of ambitious reforms, as outlined in the Action Plan for Animal Welfare. This includes introducing new powers in line with the manifesto commitment to crack down on puppy smuggling through the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill.
The Bill will safeguard the welfare of thousands of puppies and dogs that come into Great Britain from overseas each year, through reducing the number of pets that can travel under pet travel rules. It will also include powers for the Government to bring in further restrictions on the movement of pets on welfare grounds, for example by increasing the minimum age of imported puppies and restricting the import of pregnant dogs and dogs with mutilations such as cropped ears and tails. I am aware that ministers have now consulted on these proposals, and have asked for views on new penalties for breaching these rules, changes to the detention and rehoming process and whether the proposals should be extended to cover cats and ferrets. I look forward to reading the Government's response to this consultation in due course.
I am assured that all pet animals entering Great Britain on approved routes already undergo documentary and identity checks, which are performed by ferry, train or airline carriers or agents acting on their behalf. The Animal and Plant Health Agency also undertakes random checks of pet animals travelling to ensure the carriers are performing their duties to the required standard. Further, the Animal and Plant Health Agency works with Border Force and other operational partners at ports, airports and inland, sharing intelligence to enforce the Pet Travel Scheme, disrupt illegal imports and seize non-compliant animals.
March 2022
Onshore Wind
Selaine's response:
The United Kingdom was the first major economy to legislate for net zero carbon emissions and I am encouraged that, since 2000, the UK has decarbonised faster than any other G7 country.
I understand onshore wind is a key part of the Government’s strategy for low-cost decarbonisation of the energy sector. Achieving net zero by 2050 will require increased deployment across a range of technologies, including onshore wind.
The recent Energy White Paper stated that there will need to be sustained growth in the capacity of onshore wind over the next decade alongside solar and offshore wind. Therefore, I was glad that in March 2020 the Government announced that that onshore wind and other established renewable technologies such as solar PV will be able to compete in the latest Contracts for Difference (CfD) allocation round. The round is now open and will aim to deliver up to double the renewable capacity of the last successful round in 2019 with £285 million a year.
Furthermore, the Hydrogen Strategy made clear that Scotland has a key role to play in the development of a UK hydrogen economy, with the potential to produce industrial-scale quantities of hydrogen from offshore and onshore wind resources, wave and tidal power, as well as with Carbon Capture Usage and Storage.
Please be assured I will continue to monitor any future developments closely.
March 2022
Fur and Foie Gras
Selaine’s response:
My ministerial colleagues and I are united in the Government’s commitment to upholding our world leading standards in animal welfare. The Government’s Action Plan for Animal Welfare sets out the Government’s vision to introduce a range of world-leading reforms to improve the welfare and conservation of animals at home and abroad.
Fur farming has been banned in the UK for 20 years. As well as this, there are already restrictions on some skin and fur products which may never be legally imported into the UK. The UK has established controls on fur from endangered species protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and does not allow imports of fur from wild animals caught using methods which are non-compliant with international humane trapping standards.
I appreciate that there is considerable support for banning all imports of fur products. However, while there are existing import restrictions, it is still possible to import other fur from abroad. I therefore welcome the Government’s decision to seek views on animal welfare through a recent call for evidence. This will be published soon and will be used to inform any future decisions on the fur trade.
Regarding Ceremonial Caps, I know that the analysis of recent tests conducted on a fake fur fabric commissioned by PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) showed that the fake fur fabric met only one of the five requirements to be considered as a viable alternative for ceremonial caps. While it met the basic standard for water absorption, I understand that it showed unacceptable rates of water shedding and performed poorly on visual assessment. As the ceremonial cap is worn throughout the year and in all weathers, I am aware that the Ministry of Defence has no plans to take this man-made fabric forward.
I am clear that the production of foie gras from ducks or geese using force feeding raises serious welfare concerns. I am glad that this method of production has been banned in the UK for over 15 years following the introduction of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 which brought forward a legal requirement to provide for an animal’s welfare needs, such as supplying a suitable diet and protecting the animal from injury and disease. Under this legislation, it is a criminal offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to an animal. I would like to assure you that ministers are united in their commitment to upholding our world-leading standards in animal welfare.
Regarding the sale and import of foie gras, I welcome that the Government’s Action Plan for Animal Welfare sets out the Government’s vision to introduce a range of world-leading reforms to improve the welfare and conservation of animals at home and abroad. Through this Action Plan, my ministerial colleagues have committed to building a clear evidence base to inform decisions on the import or sale of foie gras.
February 2022
Cats in The Kept Animals Bill
Selaine’s response:
The UK has some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world and it is only right that we continue to improve our world-leading standards. I welcome that the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill will bring in some of the world’s strongest protections for pets, livestock and kept wild animals.
I am glad that the Bill will tackle the unethical trade of puppy smuggling by reducing the number of pets, including dogs, cats and ferrets, that can travel under pet travel rules. The Bill also contains an enabling power to allow the Environment Secretary to make regulations about the importation of cats, dogs and ferrets for the purpose of promoting their welfare.
In August 2021, the Government launched an eight-week consultation on proposed restrictions to the commercial and non-commercial movement of pets into Great Britain. I am aware that this consultation did not include proposals to increase the minimum age of kittens imported or non-commercially moved to six months or ban the import of heavily pregnant or declawed cats. I understand that this is because there is limited evidence of a significant illegal trade in cats or significant numbers of low welfare movements.
I understand that the number of movements of cats into Great Britain is much lower than for dogs, and my ministerial colleagues are not seeing the same issues with young kittens and pregnant cats being imported. In 2020, for example, no pregnant cats and only 17 kittens (under the age of 15 weeks) were seized and detained. I am assured that my ministerial colleagues are currently analysing the responses to the consultation.
I welcome that the Bill has now passed Committee Stage in the House of Commons and will return to the House as soon as parliamentary time allows.
February 2022
Animal Welfare (Sentience) Bill
Selaine’s response:
I am proud that the UK has consistently led the way on animal welfare. EU members lobbied for the recognition of animal sentience in Article 13 of the Lisbon Treaty in 2009 and, in addition, recognised in law that animals can feel pain and suffering through the Animal Welfare Act.
Now that the UK has left the EU, I am glad that this country has the opportunity to go further by making sure that all Government departments consider animal sentience in policy, covering all vertebrate animals from farm to forest. The Animal Welfare (Sentience) Bill, which is making its way through Parliament, enshrines in domestic law the recognition that animals are sentient.
I am encouraged that this Bill will create an expert Animal Sentience Committee which will review the efficacy of policy decisions with regards to animal welfare. The relevant minister must then respond to reports via statements to Parliament. From now on, ministers will need to demonstrate that the needs of animals have been considered in relevant policy decisions. This much-awaited reform covers England and policy areas that affect the whole of the UK.
I welcome that these reforms will also underpin the Government’s Action Plan for Animal Welfare, which contains upwards of forty valuable reforms. I know that this Government is committed to maintaining the very highest standards of animal welfare and I am glad that this piece of legislation continues to make good progress through Parliament.
February 2022
Neonicotinoids
Selaine’s response:
I believe that the restrictions on neonicotinoids remain justified due to the scientific evidence that they are harmful to bees and other pollinators. However, I know that ministers can consider applications for emergency authorisations in exceptional circumstances where diseases or pests cannot be controlled by any other reasonable means.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has approved an emergency, temporary authorisation for the use of thiamethoxam, which is a neonicotinoid pesticide. This is due to the beet yellows virus, which poses a threat to sugar beets in England. I am aware that emerging sugar beet seedlings are vulnerable to predation by aphids, which have the potential to spread the virus. I understand that 63% of the UK’s sugar comes from domestic production of sugar beet, which could be at risk if a significant amount of this national crop is infected. The strictly time limited emergency authorisation of this neonicotinoid treatment, Syngenta’s Cruiser SB, will provide emergency protection against this virus.
I would like to assure you that the temporary use of thiamethoxam will be tightly controlled. There will be an initial threshold for use, meaning that seed treatment will only be used if the predicted level of virus is at or above 19% of the national crop according to independent modelling. I am assured that if the virus threshold is not met then the neonicotinoid treated seed will not be used, which was the case in 2021. Strict criteria remain in place, meaning that this authorisation will only be used if necessary.
Finally, farmers will be forbidden from planting any flowering crop in the same field where the product has been used within 32 months of a treated sugar beet crop. This will reduce the environmental farm of thiamethoxam to bees.
January 2022
Access to the Countryside
Selaine’s response:
I would like to assure you that I am enthusiastic about promoting recreation in the countryside and I understand the benefits outdoor activities can produce both physically and mentally. Our countryside is of great importance and it cannot be understated just how much the scenery means to people.
I welcome that ministers are continuing to support and enhance access to the countryside. This includes completing the England Coast Path, supporting the network of National Trails, ensuring that rights of way are recorded and protected, as well as developing ways to support access through financial provisions in the Agriculture Act for environmental land management. I am encouraged that the new schemes will make a significant contribution to the goals of the 25 Year Environment Plan, including beauty, heritage and engagement with the environment. In addition, I would like to assure you that the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs confirmed that the Government will continue to pay for heritage, access and engagement through existing schemes. I believe that public access is a key way for people to engage with the environment and I know that this is something my ministerial colleagues take seriously.
Further, I know that my ministerial colleagues are looking at ways in which the UK’s new agri-environment schemes could fund the creation of new paths, such as footpaths and bridleways, providing greater and safe access for cyclists, horse riders and pedestrians. I know that they are working in close collaboration with interested parties to explore the best ways of making further enhancements to our wonderful access network.
Finally, ministers have now published the England Trees Action Plan, which sets the UK on the path to at least 12 per cent woodland cover by the middle of the century. I know that over £500 million of the £640 million Nature for Climate Fund is dedicated to trees and ministers aim to treble woodland creation rates and plant 30,000 hectares of trees per year by the end of this Parliament.
January 2022
Food Buying Standards
Selaine’s response:
I know that the Government advocates a healthy balanced diet, based on the national food model the Eatwell Guide. It is clear that our diets should include more fibre, fruit and vegetables, but that meat and dairy can both be an important part of a balanced diet. I know that the Government will consider the evidence of Henry Dimbleby’s Independent Review and will work to identify new opportunities to make the food system healthier, more sustainable, more resilient, and more accessible for those across the UK. I am Vice Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on the National Food Strategy, and take an active role within their work in this area.
I welcome that ministers want to promote seasonal and local produce, encourage variety in diets and support local businesses. I know that this includes promoting the high standards of British produce. My ministerial colleagues are refreshing public sector food procurement to place a greater emphasis on local, seasonal and sustainable produce. This will support local business and can play a key role in promoting healthy diets and reducing environmental impacts of food supply. A consultation on strengthening the Government Buying Standards for Food and Catering Services is due to be launched in early 2022.
Finally, the UK’s food standards, for both domestic production and imports, are overseen by the Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland. They continue to provide advice to the UK and Scottish governments in order to ensure that all food imports comply with the UK’s high safety standards.
I am assured that the NHS must meet the requirements of the Government Buying Standards for Food and Catering Services. Further, I know that the Independent Hospital Food Review, published in October 2020, made recommendations for improving hospital food for patients. I understand that an expert panel is now in place to implement these recommendations.
December 2021
Green New Deal
Selaine’s response:
Please note that I do not sign any Early Day Motions (EDMs). These have no chance of becoming law, and according to the House of Commons Library, cost £271 each to publish. I do not feel that this is a good use of taxpayer’s money, nor do I feel that this is an effective way to raise an issue in Parliament.
I continue to raise my constituents’ concerns with ministers privately and in Parliament to ensure that North Devon is represented in the most appropriate way. I also feel that EDMs have also been superseded by e-petitions, which can be signed by everyone, and have much more success in raising awareness of different issues.
I understand that the green new deal campaign seeks to expand the public sector to create unionised green jobs in sectors including green tech, manufacturing, care, education, climate adaptation, transport and housing. I note that the Opposition previously suggested nationalising various sectors and industries, including energy, water, Royal Mail and rail companies. This was estimated to cost £196 billion.
I feel strongly that government investment is best used helping support the private sector which, in turn, creates jobs and drives further private investment. For example, the Ten Point Plan will mobilise £12 billion of government investment and potentially three times as much from the private sector, to create and support up to 250,000 green jobs. This investment will drive innovation and lead to significant improvements in green technology which may benefit housing, transport, education, care and manufacturing.
The EDM also encourages re-training and support for those who work in fossil fuel heavy industries. I am encouraged that the North Sea Transition Deal will be a key component in ensuring the oil and gas sector work with the Government over the long-term to deliver the skills, innovation and new infrastructure required to decarbonise North Sea production, as well as other carbon intensive industries.
I note that the campaign also seeks to set legally binding targets. However, the UK has already set ambitious interim targets, including a 68% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, compared to 1990 levels, and a 78% reduction in emissions by 2035, also compared to 1990 levels. These targets commit build on the Ten Point Plan and put the UK firmly on the path to net zero by 2050, leading the way in tackling climate change globally. Furthermore, the Government also amended the Environment Act 2021 to include a new, historic, legally binding target on species abundance for 2030 to halt the decline of nature, and to address the unacceptable amount of sewage discharged by water companies into our rivers.
The Green Jobs Taskforce was established to help the Government better understand how the UK could grasp opportunities of the Green Industrial Revolution. The findings and recommendations from the taskforce have helped develop and inform the recently published Net Zero Strategy. In the strategy, the Government announced its ambition to support up to 440,000 jobs across net zero industries in 2030, contributing towards a broader pivot to a greener economy which could support 2 million jobs in green sectors or by greening existing sectors. I am encouraged that the Government will work with business to grow green industries, supply chains and skills in the UK, and ensure resilience to international changes in supply chains.
Finally, I was encouraged by the progress and agreements achieved at COP26 in Glasgow in November 2021. The Glasgow Climate Pact calls on countries to accelerate efforts towards the phase down of unabated coal power and phase out of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, while providing targeted support to the poorest and most vulnerable in line with national circumstances and recognising the need for support towards a just transition.
I hope this reassures the constituents of North Devon that this Government is continuing to reduce emissions and tackle climate change as we work towards net zero.
December 2021
Animal Testing (Medicines & Drugs)
Selaine’s response:
Animal research still plays a role in providing vital safety information for potential new medicines. It is worth remembering that, as a result of findings from animal studies, a large number of potential new drugs never get as far as being tested in humans. Some aspects of the toxicological assessment of new medicines cannot be adequately assessed in humans, and animal data will be the only kind available.
Without animal testing it is highly likely that a large number of potentially dangerous new medicines would be tested in healthy volunteers and patients in clinical trials, and I know Ministers believe that this would be quite unacceptable. However, animals are only used when there are no suitable alternatives, and by encouraging new cutting-edge approaches to science we will ensure that standards of animal welfare are improved. I am opposed to animal tests where alternative approaches could be used.
It is important to remember that existing scientific research methods ensure that, by the time medicines reach clinical trial, risks are significantly reduced.
I fully support all steps to establish new methods and to support the life sciences and research industry. Since 2017, the Government has invested around £1 billion through two Life Sciences Sector Deals, helping to generate significant levels of industry investment in the UK. I am committed to making the UK the leading global hub for life sciences. The Life Sciences Investment Programme (LSIP) aims to unlock the potential of the UK’s best health and life science innovations, allowing companies to grow in the UK. This investment programme consists of up to £600 million of joint Government and industry investment.
Regarding EDM 674, I do not believe that signing this Early Day Motion was necessary as significant steps are already being taken by the Government to address this issue. Additionally, please note that I do not sign any Early Day Motions (EDMs). These have no chance of becoming law, and according to the House of Commons Library, cost £271 each to publish. I do not feel that this is a good use of taxpayer’s money, nor do I feel that this is an effective way to raise an issue in Parliament.
I continue to raise my constituents’ concerns with Ministers privately and in Parliament to ensure that North Devon is represented in the most appropriate way. I also feel that EDMs have also been superseded by e-petitions, which can be signed by everyone, and have much more success in raising awareness of different issues.
December 2021
COP 26 Oxfam Campaign
Selaine’s response:
I note that this campaign highlights several key areas, including the Cambo oil field, climate finance and international net zero targets.
I am strongly encouraged by the progress and agreements achieved at COP26 in Glasgow in November 2021. The Glasgow Climate Pact calls on countries to accelerate efforts towards the phase down of unabated coal power and phase out of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, while providing targeted support to the poorest and most vulnerable in line with national circumstances and recognising the need for support towards a just transition.
The original licensing consent for the Cambo oil field dates back to 2001 when it was approved by the then Labour government. Development proposals for fields with existing licences, such as Cambo, are subject to a rigorous scrutiny process and environmental impact assessment. No decision has yet been taken on the Cambo project. When it comes to decarbonising our oil and gas sector, I can assure you that the government has world-leading plans through the North Sea Transition Deal ensuring that whilst we make this transition we protect and secure the tens of thousands of jobs dependent on this sector.
While I am pleased that the Government is working hard to drive down demand for fossil fuels, I do also appreciate that there will continue to be ongoing demand for oil and gas over the coming years, as recognised by the independent Climate Change Committee.
At COP25, countries highlighted that existing sources of funds from a wide variety of sources, including disaster reduction and response funds, respond to loss and damage. I understand they also urged donors and other funds to scale up support relevant to averting, minimising and addressing loss and damage in the most vulnerable countries.
Therefore, I was strongly encouraged that at COP26 in Glasgow, more public and private finance was mobilised to support climate action in developing countries than ever before and I am encouraged that the global financial system is aligning behind a net zero world. New pledges made at COP26 bring developed countries closer to meeting the $100billion annual climate finance target in 2022 and ensure it is exceeded after that, as well as mobilising billions in private finance and green investment.
Governments have committed to double the overall finance for adaptation and better address the threat of loss and damage in climate-vulnerable countries, and I know the UK will now work with all countries to make good on those pledges.
When the UK took on the COP26 Presidency in 2019, in partnership with Italy, only 30% of the world was covered by net zero targets. I am glad that this figure is now at around 90%. Clearly, there is more work to do and I am encouraged that the Glasgow Climate Pact requires countries to return next year with a more ambitious 2030 emissions reductions target in line with the 1.5C target, ensuring crucial momentum on climate action this decade is maintained.
I will follow further progress closely, reassured that ministerial colleagues will continue pushing for increased global ambition.
November 2021
GM Crops
Selaine’s response:
I am assured that GM crops can only be grown, other types of genetically modified organism (GMO) released, or GM food or animal feed products marketed if a robust risk assessment indicates it is safe for people and the environment. I am pleased that GM products are assessed case-by-case, taking full account of the latest scientific evidence, and that Ministers are committed to ensuring consumers can exercise choice through clear GM labelling rules and will continue to listen to public views about such technology.
In line with this, ministers have carried out a consultation on the regulation of genetic technologies. While this consultation primarily focused on the regulation of GMOs produced by gene editing or other genetic technologies, but which could have been developed using traditional breeding methods, ministers also took the opportunity to begin gathering evidence around the wider regulatory framework governing GMOs. I understand that the existing GMO legislation is more than thirty years old, and, as part of this consultation process, ministers are considering legislative frameworks adopted elsewhere in the world.
I understand that responses on wider GM reform are being considered separately from responses on the regulation of gene editing and will not lead to legislative change at this early stage in policy development. Further consultation will be needed on proposals before this could happen.
I know that many countries have been considering their approach to GM organism regulation in light of technological advances. I recognise that innovations through technology such as gene editing can help to create new markets, support a sustainable economy, help UK businesses globally and improve agricultural productivity in a way that enhances the natural environment.
November 2021
Environment Bill - Sewerage and Storm Overflows
Selaine's response:
Amendments are not always what they seem. The part of the amendment that I could not support called for a complete ban through the elimination on the use of storm overflows in sewage systems, which in theory we all agree with, but in practice our sewage systems work by allowing discharges in extreme rainfall to prevent flooding. This amendment came with no plan as to how this can be delivered and no impact assessment whatsoever.
It was not something that could practically have been delivered. No responsible government could have supported this part of the Amendment, even if the outcome would be desirable.
The practical problem is that across the UK there is just one system of pipes that takes both rainwater and sewerage from homes, rather than separate systems for rainwater and for sewerage. When there are storms, so much rainwater enters the sewerage system that it cannot be contained and needs to flow somewhere. If we didn’t have storm overflows into the rivers, then there would be flooding with raw sewerage, which can be extremely harrowing for households. Preventing the discharge of untreated sewerage during storms is a major change to infrastructure in almost every town and village in the country. Some mitigations such as storm tanks can reduce discharges but do not usually eliminate them.
Some might argue that a plan is not essential, that one can be formulated afterwards. I would be sympathetic to this point of view if we were talking about a simple, inexpensive endeavour. But in eliminating storm overflows, we are talking about transforming a system which has operated since the Victorian era.
Vast swathes of our towns, cities and countryside would need to be dug up including our homes and roads to completely rework our sewerage system. The preliminary cost of which is estimated to be anywhere between £150 billion and £650 billion.
To put those figures in perspective, £150 billion is more than the entire schools, policing and defence budgets put together, and £650 billion is well above what has been spent combatting the Coronavirus pandemic. It would bankrupt most water companies unless consumers or taxpayers contribute. The cost works out at between about £5,000 and £20,000 per household.
The fact is though that we do have a plan.
Last year, the Government set up the Storm Overflows Task Force, to bring together key stakeholders from the water industry, environmental NGOs and regulators, in order to drive progress in reducing sewage discharges. The Taskforce has agreed a goal to eliminate harm from storm overflows. We are now legislating, though a Government amendment to our landmark Environment Bill to give the public legal assurances of our existing commitments. Our amendment has a plan.
As legislators, MPs must ensure that the changes to the laws we make are reasonable, responsible, and actionable. The rejected section of the Lords amendment was not reasonable, responsible, or actionable, even though the spirit behind it was commendable.
Our amendment includes a new duty on water companies to significantly reduce sewage discharges each year, and to produce comprehensive statutory Drainage and Sewerage Management Plans setting out how they will do that. The Government will be required by law to present to Parliament by next September a detailed plan showing how it can eliminate sewage discharges. This is absolutely essential, as it will provide everyone with up-front, clear and comprehensive information on the cost and impact of eliminating storm overflows.
What we need now is the long, detailed, practical work required to deliver these ambitions. I was also pleased to support amendments to take firm and immediate action to tackle storm overflows in the short-term. All new developments will have to be built with sewage systems that can survive storms without discharging sewage. There will also be a new duty on water companies and the Environment Agency to publish detailed data on storm overflows and to continuously monitor the water quality upstream and downstream of a storm overflow.
I wholeheartedly share the concerns of constituents about the use of storm overflows and, as a passionate conservationist, and keen surfer, need no convincing as to the importance of ensuring clean and healthy rivers.
October 2021
Peat
Selaine’s response:
Peatlands are our biggest terrestrial carbon store and home to some of our rarest species. Healthy peatlands can help us adapt to the effects of climate change and restored upland peatland can reduce the risk of flooding. With only 13 per cent of them in a near-natural state, I am glad that the Government has set out how it will restore, sustainably manage, and protect our peatlands through the newly published England Peat Action Plan.
In line with this action plan, ministers have launched the Nature for Climate Peatland Grant Scheme which intends to invest over £50 million by 2025 to fund the restoration of at least 35,000 hectares of degraded peatlands across England, including in Sites of Special Scientific Interest. My ministerial colleagues have also outlined the action that they will take to phase out the most damaging practices to our peatland, phasing out managed burning on protected peatlands and reducing the risk of wildfire.
New legislation has now come into force banning the burning, without a licence, of specified vegetation on protected blanket bog habitats. This will protect some 142,000ha of England’s upland deep peat.
The Government has also committed to undertaking a full consultation on banning the sale of peat and peat containing products in the amateur sector by the end of this Parliament. I am assured that ministers will work with industry to understand the implications of these proposals and to identify blockages, and with the private sector to develop and enact solutions, therefore making the transition to peat alternatives as seamless as possible.
In areas like the Pennines, incentives under the future agriculture policy will be developed to support projects that deliver both the capital required to achieve the re-wetting of land, coupled with maintenance payments to preserve it for the future. Further, the Lowland Agricultural Peat Task Force is coordinating work and developing new solutions to manage peatlands that are important for food and farming. By summer 2022, ministers will have recommendations for a more sustainable future and the possibility of new schemes that reward farmers and land managers for producing public goods.
October 2021
COP 26 Debate
Selaine’s response:
It is essential if we are to keep 1.5°C alive that the UK encourages developing nations to move away from dirtier fossil fuels like coal. The UK's support for Mozambique’s project will help with their transition. The Government of Mozambique considers revenues from the LNG project as an important source of investment to support their energy transition, in line with its National Determined Contribution and its Paris Agreement commitments.
With regard to Whitehaven, the application raised planning issues of more than just local importance and a public inquiry was held, the outcome of which will be considered before any decision is made. This inquiry has now concluded and will be followed by the preparation of a report and recommendation for ministers to consider in due course.
I also appreciate constituents raising your concerns about the Cambo oil field. The original licensing consent for the Cambo oil field dates back to 2001 and the project is going through normal regulatory processes.
I am glad that the Government is working hard to drive down demand for fossil fuels. I do also appreciate that there will continue to be ongoing demand for oil and gas over the coming years, as recognised by the independent Climate Change Committee.
Horse Hill is being challenged in the Court of Appeal. I note the concerns of constituents and I will follow any developments closely.
I was unfortunately unable to attend this debate, due to a Bill Committee.
October 2021
Environment Bill: Ancient Woodland Standard
Selaine’s response:
I fully understand the importance of this issue and I am glad that our ancient woodlands are already strongly protected under the National Planning Policy Framework. As well as this, the Government also provides standing advice for local authority planners for when they make planning decision proposals affecting ancient woodland, ancient trees and veteran trees. As the majority of the proposals suggested in the Lord's Amendment you have highlighted are already covered under the National Planning Policy Framework and by the ancient woodland standing advice, the amendment was not deemed necessary and was therefore not accepted by Parliament.
I am assured, however, that cases will be kept under review where loss or deterioration of ancient woodland has been or is justified on the basis of “wholly exceptional” circumstances and ministers will encourage them to be brought to the attention of Defra at an early stage. Further, I welcome that guidance to planners making decisions on what is considered wholly exceptional will be revised.
In addition, and as recently committed to in the England Trees Action Plan, ministers will build on existing protections, including by introducing a new category of long-established woodland (woodlands that have been around since 1840) and will consult on the protections they are afforded in the planning system. The new England woodland creation offer will also fund landowners to buffer and expand ancient woodland sites by planting native broad-leaf woodland, and ministers will update the Keepers of Time policy on the management of ancient woodland, veteran trees and other semi-natural woodland.
Finally, the Secretary of State, the Rt Hon George Eustice, and his ministerial colleagues have been in regular discussions with their counterparts in the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities (DLUHC) to explore further measures that can be included in the upcoming Planning Bill to build on existing protections. I am assured that the new Secretary of State for DLUHC, the Rt Hon Michael Gove, also shares the passion for ancient trees and their protection.
October 2021
Environment Bill: Pollinators
Selaine’s response:
I understand that an amendment to the Environment Bill related to the use of pesticides was brought forward in the House of Lords. I would like to assure you that protecting pollinators is a Government priority and that decisions on pesticide authorisation are already based on expert assessment by the Health and Safety Executive. As well as this, the independent UK Expert Committee on Pesticides also advises on novel scientific issues. I understand that current legislation requires that active substances and pesticide products have “no unacceptable effects on the environment … having particular regard to its impact on non-target species”, which can include impacts on bees and other pollinators.
The scientific risk assessment of these products relies on detailed data requirements and processes, and the Government ensures that these are updated to keep in step with developments in scientific understanding. I also know that risk assessments made for active substances are already subject to public consultation. These assessments establish the key risks posed by pesticide substances in representative conditions of use. My ministerial colleagues will continue making decisions on pesticides use based on scientific risk assessments, while aiming to achieve high levels of protection for people, wildlife, and the environment.
Finally, ministers will be publishing the revised National Action Plan for the Sustainable Use of Pesticides (NAP) at the end of 2021. This will provide improved protection for pollinators, as well as human and environmental benefits.
Because of these points, the amendment was not deemed necessary and was therefore not accepted by Parliament.
October 2021
Badgers and Bovine TB
Selaine’s response:
Bovine tuberculosis threatens our cattle industry and presents a risk to other livestock, wildlife, pets and humans. Dealing with the disease costs the taxpayer over £100 million each year and the latest official statistics show that more than 27,000 cattle were compulsorily slaughtered in England to control the disease in the last year.
Ministers only ever envisaged that the badger cull would be a phase in the strategy to reduce the weight of the disease in the wildlife population. The recent consultation proposed how culling will be phased out and the next steps of the strategy accelerated, especially improved diagnostic testing. It also included proposals to stop issuing intensive cull licences for new areas after 2022; to allow new licences to be cut short after two or three years based on a review of the latest scientific evidence; and for new supplementary cull licences granted in regions that have completed intensive culls to be restricted to two years and not reissued afterwards. I understand that some form of culling would continue to be an option in exceptional circumstances to address any local disease flare-ups. I know that the Secretary of State has noted the range of responses to the consultation and these have raised some important considerations for how the delivery of the Government’s strategy is shaped and managed on the ground.
Alongside this consultation, ministers are examining further measures to accelerate bovine TB eradication in England, such as further improvements to testing, encouraging increased uptake of farm biosecurity measures, and rewarding low risk cattle purchasing behaviour. I am also pleased that, in a world first, field trials for a cattle vaccine and new skin test for bovine TB have now begun in England, with the aim of rolling them out by 2025. If the field trials are successful, farmers and vets will move a step closer to being able to vaccinate their animals against the disease, helping to save thousands of cattle every year that would have otherwise been culled to prevent the spread of bTB. The skin test which will accompany the vaccine will also represent a major breakthrough by enabling vets to identify cattle that have been vaccinated and those that are infected with the disease.
There is no single answer to tackling bovine TB, but by deploying a range of policy interventions, we can turn the tide on this terrible disease and achieve the long-term objective of eradicating it in England by 2038.
October 2021
Green Finance
Selaine’s response:
I am strongly encouraged by the Government’s vision for the future of Britain's financial services sector shaped around four key themes, including the determination to make the UK a world-leader in green finance.
I also welcome the new environmental sustainability and net zero remits which have been granted to the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee and Financial Policy Committee. I believe that the amended objectives, which emphasise sustainable growth consistent with the transition to a net zero economy, will be essential in helping mobilise innovation and finance in the protection of our environment and fight against climate change.
I know that my colleagues at the Treasury are committed to ensuring that the financial system plays a major role in the delivery of the UK’s net zero target and ambitions for a ‘nature positive’ future at home and abroad.
The UK recently issued our first ever Sovereign Green Bond, becoming the first country in the world to make Taskforce on Climate Related Disclosures mandatory by 2023. I am proud that the UK has also used its chair of the G7 to broker an agreement to move towards making climate disclosures mandatory across their respective economies.
October 2021
Sustainable Fishing
Selaine’s response:
Our waters are a precious natural resource and they must be managed carefully. I am therefore pleased that the Government is fully committed to the sustainable management of our seas, while enabling a successful UK fishing fleet. The objectives in the Fisheries Act 2021 collectively reaffirm this commitment to achieving sustainable fishing and protecting the marine environment while tailoring the approach to our unique seas.
As you may know, Ministers have already set up a ‘Blue Belt’ of Marine Protected Areas extending across 38% of UK waters, and the Fisheries Act includes new powers to better manage and control these Areas. Further, under UK leadership, 80 countries have now signed up to an international target to protect at least 30% of the world’s ocean by 2030 and, alongside this, the Government has accepted the central recommendation of the Benyon Review and will be taking forward Highly Protected Marine Area pilot sites. These sites will be designated next year and will aid nature to recover to a more natural state, allowing the ecosystem to thrive in the absence of damaging activities.
The Marine Management Organisation has now consulted on proposals to manage activity in four of England’s offshore Marine Protected Areas: Dogger Bank Special Area of Conservation, Inner Dowsing, Race Bank and North Ridge Special Area of Conservation. I am aware that the byelaws being proposed aim to prohibit fishing activities where there is evidence that they harm wildlife or damage habitats, and will seek to prohibit the use of bottom towed fishing gear in all four sites and additional restrictions for static gears over sensitive features in two of the sites. I understand that these first four Marine Protected Areas were chosen as a priority to help protect their vibrant and productive undersea environments. I know the information received from this consultation is now being reviewed and I look forward to the Marine Management Organisation's response.
The EU’s Common Fisheries Policy has restricted our ability to impose more stringent protections on our seas. Now that the UK has left the EU, the UK Government has powers to implement evidenced based marine management that will help ensure our seas are managed sustainably, protecting both the long-term future of the fishing industry and our precious wildlife and habitats. The Fisheries Act will help to protect our marine resources and develop plans to restore our fish stock back to more sustainable levels.
I know that many constituents have concerns about larger vessels fishing in our waters. I would like to assure you that now the Transition Period has ended Ministers are reviewing the UK’s policy on access for supertrawlers. This review is being driven by evidence and needs to consider how any measures fit with obligations under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement with the EU, as well as avoid taking any action against individual vessels which could be construed as discriminatory. I am pleased that under the Fisheries Act 2020, vessels permitted to fish in UK waters will have to be licensed and comply with UK rules and regulations including those on sustainability. Furthermore, licence conditions set by UK Sea Fisheries Authorities will apply to both UK and foreign vessels alike.
October 2021
Uplands
Selaine's response:
I am absolutely committed to protecting our uplands and the wildlife that thrives there, whilst also deeply aware of the potential impact to the people who live and farm there. I have met and spoken with local farmers regarding their concerns over the uplands proposals, and I will ensure I engage with our local farmers and landowners throughout.
Restoring nature is crucial, and I am pleased that the Prime Minister has committed to protecting 30% of the UK’s land by 2030 and will be making nature a key focus of COP26. As well as this, the Environment Bill has been amended in the House of Lords to require a historic, new legally binding target on species abundance for 2030 with the aim of halting the decline of nature in England.
The UK is moving to a new agricultural system which will reward farmers and land managers for the work that they do to enhance the environment. The environmental land management schemes being introduced will pay for sustainable farming practices, the creation and restoration of habitats, natural flood management, species management, and making landscape-scale environmental changes, among other things. I hope that the uplands provide rich opportunities for the provision of environmental public goods and will be well placed to participate in these schemes but will of course continue to ensure that this works for our local farmers.
A Trees Action Plan sets out the long-term vision for the planting and management of woodlands and trees. These plans are underpinned by the £640 million Nature for Climate Fund which will support a trebling of tree planting across England by the end of this Parliament and help to restore 35,000ha of peatland by the end of this Parliament. I was fortunate enough to visit the National Trust recently who were awarded £600,000 as part of the Green Recovery Challenge, to invest into the Exmoor uplands farming communities to encourage biodiversity.
Additionally, raptor persecution is one of six national wildlife crime priorities and the Raptor Persecution Priority Delivery Group considers what action should be taken to prevent crime, gather intelligence on offences and enforce against. The National Wildlife Crime Unit also gathers intelligence on illegal activities and provides assistance to police forces when required.
September 2021
Caged Farm Animals
Selaine’s response:
I would like to start by assuring you that I care very much about the welfare of all animals. I am pleased to tell you that my ministerial colleagues are examining the evidence around the use of cages for farm animals and are considering the options. They have also committed to continuing to focus on maintaining world-leading farm animal welfare standards through both regulatory requirements and statutory codes.
Ministers have been clear that it is their ambition for farrowing crates to no longer be used for sows. Indeed, the new pig welfare code clearly states that “the aim is for farrowing crates to no longer be necessary and for any new system to protect the welfare of the sow, as well as her piglets.” It is important that we make progress towards a system that both works commercially and safeguards the welfare of the sow and her piglets, and that we do so as quickly as possible. I am pleased to confirm the UK is already ahead of most pig producing countries in terms of non-confinement farrowing, with around 40% of our pigs housed outside and not farrowed with crates.
I am encouraged that this Government has set itself a challenging agenda to tackle animal welfare issues and is taking action on many fronts to improve the health and wellbeing of farm animals. A major example is the commitment to end excessively long journeys for live animals going for slaughter and for fattening, which will be realised through the Kept Animals Bill now making its way through Parliament.
Now we have left the EU, Ministers are also able to reward farmers for providing higher standards of animal welfare and environmental protection measures. I am pleased that Ministers have committed to co-designing an Animal Health and Welfare Pathway under this plan, which aims to promote the production of healthier, higher-welfare farm animals at a level beyond compliance with current regulations. The direction of the Pathway so far has been developed in active partnership with industry.
September 2021
Climate Promise
Selaine's response:
Climate change is one of the greatest challenges we face, and I can assure you that I, along with the Government, recognise the importance and urgency of action on this issue.
I am pleased that the UK, which is continuing to play a world-leading role in tackling climate change, was the first G7 country to legislate to achieve net zero by 2050, and we are decarbonising faster than any G20 country. In addition, we have set ambitious climate targets in law, such as a commitment to reduce emissions by 68% by 2030, and also to reduce emissions by 78% by 2035, both compared to 1990 levels.
The Prime Minister's Ten Point Plan lays the blueprint for how we will achieve net zero. As included in the plan, the UK will produce enough offshore wind to power every home, quadrupling how much we currently produce to 40GW by 2030, thereby supporting up to 60,000 jobs. The Government will work with industry and aim to generate 5GW of low carbon hydrogen production capacity by 2030 for industry, transport, power and homes. In addition, the Government aims to develop the first town heated entirely by hydrogen by the end of the decade. The UK will also become a world leader in carbon capture technology to store harmful emissions away from the atmosphere, with a target to remove 10MT of carbon dioxide by 2030, equivalent to all emission of the industrial Humber today, through £200 million investment. Finally, from £525 million investment in nuclear as a clean energy source this will develop the next generation of small and advanced reactors which could support 10,000 jobs.
Other parts of the plan include a target to install 600,000 heat pumps every year by 2028, £1 billion funding to make our schools, hospitals and homes more energy efficient, planting 30,000 hectares of trees every year, promoting and investing in zero-emission transport and £20 million to develop clean maritime technology. The plan also includes a pledge to end the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2030, while the sale of some hybrid cars and vans will continue until 2035.
This plan will mobilise £12 billion of Government investment to create and support 250,000 highly skilled green jobs across the UK. It is expected to spur over three times as much private sector investment by 2030.
At the same time, the Environment Bill has been introduced to protect and improve the environment for future generations, enshrining in law environmental principles and legally binding targets.
September 2021
UK Climate Emissions
Selaine’s response:
Homes in the UK represent around 15% of all greenhouse gas emissions (around 23% if electricity generation is included), and I know the Government recognises that upgrading home energy performance is crucial if we are to meet net zero greenhouse gas emissions across the UK economy by 2050.
Ministers are currently working on a Heat and Buildings Strategy which will be published shortly. The strategy aims to set out the immediate actions to take to reduce emissions from our buildings and establish the vital role of local authorities in supporting heat decarbonisation.
I am pleased that the Green Homes Grant Voucher Scheme (GHGVS) helped around 60,000 households become more energy efficient through measures such as installing cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, an air source heat pump or double or triple glazing windows when upgrading single glazing. This has helped many families save hundreds of pounds on their energy bills a year. While this particular scheme has closed, the Government remains dedicated to increasing the efficiency of low income homes across England to tackle our contribution to climate change. The funding previously allocated for the GHGVS will now support a scheme that targets low income households which will be distributed by local authorities. Through reallocating these funds, ministers hope to achieve a better-targeted approach that will reach more households. This additional £300 million of funding will increase the Government’s total spending on energy efficiency measures to £1.3 billion for this year.
In addition, as included in the Clean Growth Strategy, the Government set out its aspiration for as many homes as possible to be Energy Performance Certificate Band C by 2035 where cost effective, affordable and practical, and to reach this standard by 2030 for fuel poor homes. To achieve this, it will need to mobilise up to £65 billion for upgrades, which will put us on a path to net zero, significantly reduce household energy bills, and improve our health and wellbeing. It will also create new opportunities for the energy efficiency sector, currently the largest part of the low carbon and renewable energy economy.
Measures are also being taken to upgrade buildings in the public sector such as schools, colleges and universities. The Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme is helping these such buildings install low carbon heating and energy efficient measures. This scheme is in its second phase, focusing on heat decarbonisation for which the Government has provided £75 million of funding.
Work is underway to build a vibrant and sustainable market through introducing a suite of policies and measures that will drive uptake of energy efficiency:
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Through the Energy Company Obligation, over 2 million homes have had energy efficiency improvements since 2013. The Government is committed to extending this support to 2028, driving more than £6 billion of investment in domestic energy efficiency.
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Energy suppliers are required to provide low income and vulnerable households with energy efficiency and heating upgrades under the ECO.
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Invest a further £6.3 billion over the next 10 years to upgrade the worst homes and improve the energy performance of social housing.
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A commitment to publish consultations on a long-term trajectory to improve the energy performance standards of privately rented homes, and on setting requirements for lenders to improve the energy performance of homes they lend to.
From 2021, I am pleased that new homes will be expected to emit 31% less CO2 and, in addition, a Future Homes Standard will be introduced in 2025. This will see new build homes future-proofed with low carbon heating and world leading standards of energy efficiency to produce 75% less CO2 emissions.
September 2021
Fur Trade
Selaine’s response:
We have a proud history in this country on animal welfare, however my ministerial colleagues and I know there is more that can be done. I am encouraged that as an independent nation we are now able to re-examine some of our animal welfare laws, including the import of fur for use in fashion products.
Fur farming has been banned in England and Wales since 2000 and since 2002 in Scotland and Northern Ireland. As well as this, there are already restrictions on some skin and fur products which may never be legally imported into the UK. These include fur and products from cats and dogs, and seal skins and products from commercial hunts. The UK has established controls on fur from endangered species protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and this country does not allow imports of fur from wild animals caught using methods which are non-compliant with international humane trapping standards.
I appreciate that there is considerable support for banning all imports of fur products. We have some of the highest welfare standards in the world, and that is both a source of pride and a clear reflection of UK attitudes towards animals. While there are the existing import restrictions listed above, it is still possible to import other fur from abroad. I am therefore pleased that a call for evidence has now been carried out, alongside the Scottish and Welsh governments, to seek views from the public and businesses surrounding animal welfare as well as the social and economic impacts associated with the fur trade, both at home and abroad. I understand that the views, data and case studies received will be vital to helping to inform future government policy in this area, including by better understanding the trade both at home and abroad, and I look forward to reading the results in due course.
Unfortunately I will not be able to attend the Westminster Hall debate on 14th September, however I will be sure to closely follow this matter.
September 2021
Animal Testing
Selaine’s response:
I would like to reassure constituents that there has been no change in legislation and that the ban on using animals for the testing of finished cosmetic products remains in force.
Under UK regulations to protect the environment and the safety of workers, animal testing can be permitted, where required by UK regulators, on single or multiuse ingredients. However, such testing can only be conducted where there are no non-animal alternatives.
The Home Office has said that it will clarify its position with the formal publication of an updated policy and regulatory guidance on the regulation of animal testing. This is very welcome and will ensure the UK's approach to animal testing is transparent.
I will continue to monitor this area very closely.
September 2021
Dangerous Dogs
Selaine’s response:
In response to the E-petition 300561, the Government has maintained that the prohibition on the four types of fighting dogs under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 should remain in place.
This Government is determined to crack down on irresponsible dog ownership and encourages police forces across the country to use the tools at their disposal to address this problem. There are no proposals to re-introduce the dog licence, as the previous licensing scheme for dogs was ceased in 1988 because it was estimated that only around 40% of owners were compliant.
In 2018, a Parliamentary Committee conducted a review into controlling dangerous dogs. The report made a series of recommendations to improve dog ownership and reduce dog attacks, and the Government has responded positively to these suggestions. The committee stated: "We agree with the Government that it would be irresponsible to amend the breed ban immediately without adequate safeguards.”
Ministers have now commissioned research by Middlesex University into dog attacks. The research will consider different approaches and the effectiveness of current dog control measures and identify the factors and situations that may cause dog attacks. The report is currently being peer-reviewed and will be finalised in light of peer review comments, with the intention to publish the final report later this year.
The UK has some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world, and the Queen's Speech set out how this Government will take advantage of our status as an independent nation outside the EU to go further in protecting our animals.
August 2021
Grasslands
Selaine’s response:
It is disappointing that we have lost more than 90% of our meadows over the last 100 years. I am therefore pleased that the Government is taking action to reverse those losses by managing designated sites, providing incentives for habitat management and creation, and forging strong partnerships with landowners, communities and conservation bodies.
The Agricultural Transition Plan sets out the path to an ambitious new agricultural system which will reward farmers and land managers for the work they do to look after and enhance our environment.
Ministers are introducing three schemes that will reward the delivery of environmental benefits: the Sustainable Farming Incentive, the Local Nature Recovery scheme, and the Landscape Recovery scheme. These schemes will pay for sustainable farming practices, creating and preserving habitat such as species-rich grassland, and making landscape-scale environmental changes.
Later this year, ministers will pilot the initial land management actions under the Sustainable Farming Incentive. These include an improved grassland standard which will help increase biodiversity and resilience to climate change, improve soil condition and carbon storage, and improve water and air quality, as well as an improved grassland soils standard which will be paid out to farmers who maintain and improve the condition and structure of their soil to promote clean water and improve climate resilience, biodiversity and food production.
Finally, across the country, the Government is investing in protecting, restoring and recovering wildlife-rich habitats and species. The 25 Year Environment Plan sets out plans for nature recovery and Ministers have invested £80 million through the Green Recovery Challenge Fund to help charities and environmental organisations start work on conservation projects across England. Furthermore, the Prime Minister has committed to protecting 30% of the UK’s land by 2030 and ministers have amended the Environment Bill to require a historic, new legally binding target on species abundance for 2030 with the aim of halting the decline of nature in England.
August 2021
Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) Review
Selaine’s response:
One of the many roles of the JNCC is to work with Natural England, Natural Resources Wales and NatureScot, known collectively as the country nature conservation bodies, to ensure that legislative lists of protected species are up to date. This includes species that are protected in Great Britain under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981.
The country nature conservation bodies in Great Britain, working through the JNCC, carry out a five yearly review of Schedules 5 and 8 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act. The data gathering phase of this year’s review ran until 7th July 2021 and through this process Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) were able to propose additional endangered species for inclusion on the schedules, propose species for removal from the schedules, and/or propose a change in protection status of a species on the schedules.
It is worth noting that any proposal submitted must include evidence that an endangered species will benefit from the additional protection. This means that the protection should help the cause of the species’ decline and increase its chances of survival. Evidence could include that the endangered species is currently subject to intentional or reckless harm.
Now that the data gathering phase of the review has been completed, the information collected will now be analysed and, following this, interested organisations will then be invited to comment on amendments to the proposed list through a formal consultation phase in the autumn. Following this phase, recommendations for changes to the schedules will be provided to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the devolved administrations in Great Britain. I understand that the Secretary of State will consider these recommendations and lay this advice before Parliament, which I look forward to reviewing.
August 2021
Primates as Pets
Selaine’s response:
Primates are highly intelligent wild animals with complicated welfare needs, and require open spaces, varied diets, social contact and plenty of warmth and light. When primates are confined in tiny cages, often alone and with little stimulation, their lives are a misery. I understand that a recent call for evidence found that these complex needs cannot be met in a home environment. I believe that we must therefore take action to prevent the suffering caused to these creatures.
Having considered the evidence available, including the responses to the Government consultation, I am pleased that my ministerial colleagues have now confirmed that they will legislate to prohibit primates as pets.
I am aware that keepers who are able to provide welfare standards akin to those of licensed zoos will be able to keep their primates under a new licensing regime, subject to conditions and inspections. Ownership of these exotic animals with complex needs will be phased out for keepers unable to meet these standards. Further, ministers will place a ban on the sale, or otherwise transferring of primates apart from to persons holding a relevant licence. A relevant licence would include a Zoo licence, an Animals (Scientific Procedures) licence and a new ‘specialist private primate keeper’ licence. It is welcome that the new prohibitions and licensing regime is being introduced through legislation in the Kept Animals Bill.
The commitment to ban keeping primates such as capuchins, lemurs and squirrel monkeys forms part of a renewed push to cement the UK’s position as a world leader on animal welfare.
Currently, anyone wishing to keep a primate covered by The Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 must apply for a licence from their local authority. Some keepers of smaller primates do not need a license, but in all cases the animal is protected by the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Now that the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act has come into force, anyone causing unnecessary suffering to a primate will be liable to up to five months’ imprisonment or an unlimited fine, or both. The statutory Code of Practice for the Welfare of Privately Kept Non-human Primates also outlines how primates must be provided with a suitable environment and diet, be able to exhibit normal behaviour, be housed with, or apart from, other animals and be protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease.
August 2021
Animal Testing: Welfare of Dogs
Selaine’s response:
I am proud that the UK has consistently led the way on animal welfare, and it is right that we cement our status as a global leader by continuing to raise the bar. I am pleased that this Government's unique Action Plan for Animal Welfare committed to maintaining high standards of protection where procedures are undertaken on live animals for scientific or educational purposes.
The use of animals in scientific research remains a vital tool in improving our understanding of how biological systems work in health and disease, and in the development of new medicines, treatments and technologies. However, animals are only used in research when there are no suitable alternatives, and any tests are carried out under controls that keep suffering to a minimum. This is known as the last resort principle, which will be retained and strengthened in the Environment Bill. Please be assured that I am opposed to animal tests where alternative approaches could be used.
I welcomed the introduction of the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Bill to Parliament. This Bill will not only enshrine recognition of animal sentience in domestic law, but will also establish an expert-led Animal Sentience Committee, which will produce reports on the impact of policy decisions on animal welfare. Further, I am pleased that the new Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act has enabled tougher prison sentences for the most serious perpetrators of animal cruelty, from the previous maximum of six months to up to five years. The maximum five-year sentence is one of the toughest punishments in Europe, strengthening the UK’s position as a global leader on animal welfare.
I hope this offers the reassurance that this Government is deeply committed to maintaining the very highest standards of animal welfare in research.
July 2021
‘Stop Sea Blasts’ Campaign
Selaine’s response:
I believe we should do all we can to protect the welfare of our marine life, especially the whale, and from my conversations with ministerial colleagues I know they feel the same. I understand that there are estimated to be between 300,000 and 500,000 pieces of unexploded ordnance left over from World War I and II in UK waters. Many of these unexploded bombs lie in areas which are heavily used by marine industries, including offshore wind, and the bombs must be removed to allow safe working conditions. However, clearance of these munitions using traditional high order detonation causes significant underwater noise which has the potential to disturb and injure marine mammals.
I am therefore pleased that ministers are working closely with the Marine Management Organisation, nature conservation bodies and marine industries to reduce underwater noise, but it is important that they ensure any clearance method used is both safe and effective.
Ministers are investigating the nature and intensity of the underwater noise resulting from the detonation of unexploded ordnance alongside alternative methods of clearance such as low-order deflagration. Controlled inland quarry trials of deflagration, funded through the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Strategic Environmental Assessment research programme, have indicated a positive reduction in noise. I understand that further research is planned to determine if these initial findings are transferable to the offshore marine environment where environmental variables and conditions can make bomb removal more challenging when compared to a controlled quarry environment.
At-sea trials are planned to begin this summer to characterise, for the first time, the resulting noise and chemical contaminant releases in the marine environment, and to determine whether the technology is safe and effective on historic ordnance that have been left in the marine environment for many years.
I know that with an improved evidence base, and with continuing support and advice from the Statutory Nature Conservation Bodies, the Marine Management Organisation will be able to make better informed licensing decisions around the use of such techniques in English waters. Improving the evidence will mean licence conditions will become better defined, measurable and enforceable.
We have an exceptional opportunity to revitalise our marine landscape, particularly in the South West, to harness its ability to capture carbon and base zero carbon energy production through Floating Offshore Wind Turbines. To enable this, we must clear and make safe our seabed, that in no way should distract us from doing it as safely and as possible.
July 2021
Alcohol and Beer Duty
Selaine’s response:
In 2013, the Government took the decision to end the beer duty escalator, and beer duty has been frozen or cut several times since then. Duty on spirits has been frozen over the past two years, and as a result of these changes, a typical pint is cheaper than it would have been. I share the concerns about the future of pubs and the hardship caused by the coronavirus outbreak, and the steps taken by HMRC to make it easier to claim back the duty on any beer thrown away as a result of pub closures were a timely and sensible intervention.
I welcome the Chancellor’s announcement that, for the second year running, alcohol duties will be frozen, covering duty on spirits, beer, wine, and cider which will save drinkers £1.7 billion.
I am encouraged that the Government and the Treasury recognise the importance of supporting our pubs and keeping costs down for customers, and I welcome the Chancellor’s commitment in the recent Budget to extend this support. There is a broad recognition of the need to reform the current duty system to support the alcoholic drinks and pubs sector in the longer term, and on 1 October 2020, a call for evidence for reform of Alcohol Duty was published.
Additionally, I welcome the temporary cut to VAT from 20% to 5% for all food and non-alcoholic drinks, which has been extended until the end of September and will be followed by a 12.5% rate until 31 March 2022. I have written to the Chancellor about extended support in this area and have worked with and spoken to many pubs and restaurants in North Devon over the course of the last 18 months. I am doing a selection of ‘village surgeries’ over the summer at some rural pubs and over the winter I ran the ‘take out to help out’ competition to highlight the innovative and great work done by many of our pubs who adapted their operations during the pandemic.
I am confident that the VAT changes will continue to support restaurants, pubs, bars, cafés and similar premises across the UK but I will always be pushing for more.
July 2021
Trophy Hunting
Selaine’s response:
I understand that there is a great strength of feeling around this issue. The Government is committed to doing all it can to support wildlife and the environment, both in the UK and internationally, and I am pleased that the recent Queen's Speech reaffirmed that ministers will be delivering on the manifesto commitment to ban the import of hunting trophies from endangered species.
The consultation on controls on the import and export of hunting trophies, which closed in February 2020, was the first step in fulfilling this commitment and provided an opportunity for respondents to offer views on which species they considered needed further restrictions. I understand that the COVID-19 pandemic has delayed the publication of the Government response to this consultation and accompanying call for evidence on controls on the import and export of hunting trophies. However, ministers are continuing to work on this important area and will publish a response as soon as they are able to do so.
Climate change and global biodiversity decline are interlinked threats for wildlife and people. I know that biodiversity is declining at a dangerous and unprecedented speed, and species extinction rates are accelerating, with up to 1 million species threatened. Overexploitation is one of the drivers of species extinction and additional pressures on vulnerable species can result from unsustainable or inappropriately managed activity. I believe that transformative changes are needed to restore and protect nature.
In the 25 Year Environment Plan, the UK Government committed to providing international leadership in protecting and improving international biodiversity and undertaking international action to protect endangered species. This international leadership is underpinned by a strong commitment to ensuring that the UK’s domestic policy does not threaten the conservation of species abroad. While I recognise that some conservationists believe trophy hunting can be an effective conservation tool, supporting local livelihoods and attracting revenues for other conservation activities, it is also important to acknowledge concerns around the practice of trophy hunting. I therefore look forward to seeing how the Government's proposed action addresses these concerns.
July 2021
Live Animal Exports
Selaine’s response:
Live animals commonly endure excessively long journeys during exports, causing distress and injury. Previously, EU rules prevented any changes to these journeys, but leaving the EU has enabled the Government to pursue plans which would prevent unnecessary suffering of animals during transport and see the UK become the first country in Europe to end this practice. Following a public consultation on the manifesto commitment to end excessively long journeys for animals for slaughter and fattening, I am pleased that the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill has now been introduced to Parliament. This Bill will allow the UK to become the first European country to end this practice.
I understand that under the Bill export journeys for slaughter and fattening that use England or Wales as a land bridge would not be permitted. I am assured that the legislation will not impact on domestic slaughter and fattening movements, and that the export of poultry, as well as animals being exported for breeding purposes, will continue to take place providing animal welfare is suitably protected.
As part of the consultation process, ministers also looked at proposals to generally improve animal welfare in transport, such as new maximum journey times, new requirements for thermal conditions and ventilation, space and headroom allowances and tighter rules for transporting live animals by sea. I understand that an official response to the consultation will be published in due course.
I know there is longstanding concern over the export of live animals for slaughter and fattening and many have campaigned for decades against this practice. I truly believe ending live exports for slaughter and fattening will signal this country’s intention of continuing to be a world leader in animal welfare by maintaining and strengthening our already high animal welfare standards.
July 2021
Deposit Return Scheme
Selaine’s response:
We can be in no doubt that plastic is wreaking havoc on our marine environment and degrading our most precious habitats. It is absolutely vital we act now to tackle this threat and curb the millions of plastic bottles a day that go unrecycled.
I am pleased that ministers remain committed to developing a deposit return scheme in England for single use drinks containers to incentivise people to recycle plastic and glass. These schemes see consumers pay an up-front deposit that is redeemed on return of the empty drink container. A second consultation has now been carried out which builds on the first and offered a chance to explore further what the continued appetite is for a deposit return scheme in a ‘post-Covid’ context. This second consultation will also inform how a future scheme can be designed in the best and most coherent way possible to deliver on the objectives set out for introducing such a policy. I understand that timelines have been reviewed to ensure sufficient time is allowed for the roll out of a complex policy, and ministers therefore propose to implement the scheme in 2024.
The Government has already taken strong action to reduce plastic waste; 15.6 billion fewer bags have been handed out to shoppers by the seven main retailers since the introduction of the plastic bag charge in 2015 and the ban on plastic microbeads in cosmetic products has been welcomed as one of the toughest in the world. It is now time to take action on plastic bottles to help clean up our oceans.
July 2021
Plastic
Selaine’s response:
Please be assured that this Government is committed to tackling plastic pollution, both domestically and internationally. This is also an issue I take extremely seriously myself, and I have frequently spoken in Parliament on the issue, as well actively engaged on the ground in North Devon with a range of my own and other people’s initiatives.
The Government’s landmark Environment Bill will introduce a raft of new powers to step up the fight against plastic pollution and litter. We are committed to introducing a Deposit Return Scheme for drinks containers, which will recycle billions more plastic bottles and stop them being landfilled or littered. The Extended Producer Responsibility scheme for packaging will make manufacturers responsible for the full net cost of recycling their packaging waste and encourage more recyclable packaging. There are also plans to introduce Consistent Recycling Collections for every household and business in England, ensuring more plastic is recycled and not condemned to landfill.
The Government will consult on a ban on the export of plastic waste to non-OECD countries, and ministers will have new powers that will make it easier to place charges on single-use plastic items that threaten our ecosystems. The Government is also introducing a world-leading new tax set at £200 per tonne on plastic packaging which doesn’t meet a minimum threshold of at least 30% recycled content from April 2022, to encourage greater use of recycled plastic to tackle the problem of plastic waste and protect our environment. Building on the success of our carrier bag charge to date, it has now been increased to 10 pence and extended the obligation to charge to all retailers.
In Plastic Free July, I believe these policies are particularly pertinent, and I would encourage you, and indeed all of my constituents, to consider making the switch to refuse to use single use plastics. These plastics blight our local environment, coasts, and oceans, and are not only unsightly when littered, but cause great harm to our marine and land wildlife. As I highlighted in my World Ocean Day 2021 debate in Parliament, although plastics, microplastics, and nurdles cause visible and tangible impact on land, much of the impact of plastic in our oceans is not visible, and requires a change in actions at home.
Internationally, the UK launched the Commonwealth Clean Ocean Alliance (CCOA) in 2018, along with our co-chair Vanuatu, to reduce marine plastic pollution. Since its launch, 34 Commonwealth member states have united to take action on tackling plastic pollution. To support the ambitions of the CCOA, the UK has committed up to £70m to tackle plastic pollution entering the ocean, which includes boosting global research, supporting developing countries, and making efforts to transition to more sustainable forms of manufacturing.
The UK’s Commonwealth Litter Programme (CLiP) has supported several Commonwealth countries to develop National Marine Litter Action Plans which focus on preventing plastics from entering the ocean, with emphasis on capacity building and developing plastics monitoring programmes. Since 2018, the UK has supported the Global Plastic Action Partnership (GPAP) to create collaborative platforms for businesses across the plastics supply chains to collaborate with NGOs and governments on tackling marine plastic pollution. Partnerships have been launched in Vietnam, Indonesia and Ghana.
A new global agreement would build upon the important work we are already doing to tackle marine litter domestically and internationally and support our commitments to eliminate plastic entering the ocean. I am therefore pleased that the UK supports starting negotiations on a new global agreement on marine litter and microplastics at the continuation of the 5th session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA 5.2) in 2022.
I have personally written to ministers in the Department for Health and Social Care, and the Department for the Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs, to raise the problem of plastic pollution in the oceans, and the associated health effects for humans and wildlife, and I will share their responses on my website when they write back to me.
I also want to stress my support for Plastic Free North Devon, who are a fantastic local group, who do so much work locally campaigning to reduce plastics. One campaign of theirs that I particularly support is that of preventing the sale of cheap, low quality, polystyrene bodyboards in shops in North Devon. These cheap, poorly designed and badly made boards not only cheat parents out of their hard earned cash, but by breaking easily often end up discarded on our beaches. Marine life can and do mistake them for food, and the consequences are causing some serious harm to our local ecosystem. It is not right that these boards are allowed to be sold in North Devon, or indeed anywhere.
I hope this response reassures you not only that the Government is committed to tackling plastic pollution, but that it is a deep and personal issue for me too, and one that I am committed to engaging with and tackling properly. However, we can all do our bit, for example by joining one of Plastic Free North Devon’s beach cleans, and as a community I know that together we will make a big difference. You can find out more about Plastic Free North Devon by visiting their website: www.plasticfreenorthdevon.org, or visit my website, www.selainesaxby.org.uk, for the latest information on what local initiatives may be happening.
July 2021
Hedgehogs
Selaine’s response:
The hedgehog is an extraordinary creature with a long and celebrated history in North Devon and the UK as a whole. I am pleased that these creatures are currently protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 from being killed using prohibited methods such as crossbows, traps and snares.
The Environment Bill contains measures that will help improve the status of threatened species, including the hedgehog. This includes a requirement to set at least one long-term, legally binding target in relation to biodiversity, as well as strengthening the duty on public authorities to take action to conserve and enhance biodiversity. Ministers are also acting, through net gain provisions in the Bill, to support the role of new development in helping protect and create the habitat that our native species, including hedgehogs, need to thrive. Further, ministers will be amending the Bill in the House of Lords to require a historic, new legally binding target on species abundance for 2030 with the aim of halting the decline of nature in England.
I also very much welcome the measured approach to environmental reform that the Secretary of State will take. Ministers will consult with the new Office for Environmental Protection, and work with conservation groups on any proposals they develop before any regulatory changes are made. In addition, later this year, a Green Paper will be brought forward setting out plans to deliver a regulatory framework that is fit for purpose, including the objective of protecting 30% of terrestrial land by 2030. I know that we need a revised approach to deliver this new species abundance target and better support iconic and much-loved native species like the hedgehog.
Further, the Government is working to determine the specific actions that will reward farmers and land managers under the new environmental land management schemes. These could include creating, managing and restoring habitats such as woodland, heathland and species-rich grassland, which could all benefit species such as hedgehog.
July 2021
Great Big Green Week
Selaine’s response:
Thank you to those who have brough the Great Big Green Week to my attention, which is taking place from 18-26 September this year. I am pleased that this is taking place before COP26 to encourage further awareness of the key issues surrounding climate change. I appreciate those who have taken the time to invite me to meet them to discuss these issues ahead of the Great Big Green Week.
Unfortunately, due to a very busy diary in the months ahead, I do not have time to schedule any meetings before the Great Big Green Week. However, I will continue to closely monitor the Government's work in the run up to COP26.
I note the concerns raised to me about global temperatures. The landmark Paris Agreement of 2015 aims to halt global warming at well below 2°C, while pursuing efforts to limit it to 1.5°C. I was delighted that when we hosted the G7 in June 2021, world leaders committed to accelerating efforts to cut greenhouse gas emissions and keep the 1.5°C global warming threshold within reach. In addition, they committed to protect the planet by supporting a green revolution that creates jobs and cuts emissions.
I hope that further global action is achieved at COP26, and am hosting my own event at the start of the Great Big Green Week for COP26.
June 2021
Kept Animals Bill
Selaine’s response:
The UK has a long history of leading the way on animal welfare. I am pleased that now we have left the EU, the Government is committed to improving our already world-leading standards by delivering a series of ambitious reforms, outlined in the Action Plan for Animal Welfare. Building on the Action Plan, the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill will bring in some of the world’s highest and strongest protections for pets, livestock and kept wild animals. I look forward to supporting the Bill as it makes its way through Parliament.
Primates are highly intelligent animals with complex needs and require specialist care. I am pleased that through the Bill the Government will deliver on the manifesto commitment to introduce a ban on keeping them as pets, ensuring that all primates being kept privately in England are being kept at zoo-level standards and that ownership of primates at a level below these standards is phased out.
I understand that live animals can endure excessively long journeys during export, causing distress and injury. EU rules prevented any changes to these journeys, but the UK Government is now free to pursue plans which would see a ban on the export of live animals for slaughter and fattening. This Bill will ensure that the UK is the first European country to end this practice.
I want to reassure you that I take the issue of illegal puppy imports very seriously. I am pleased that the Bill will introduce new powers to tackle the unethical trade of puppy smuggling by reducing the number of pets, including dogs, cats and ferrets, that can travel under pet travel rules. It will also provide powers for the Government to bring in further restrictions on the movement of pets on welfare grounds, and allow for enforcement measures to support these restrictions. Further restrictions could include an increase in the minimum age of imported puppies, as well as the prohibition of the import of pregnant dogs and dogs with mutilations such as cropped ears and tails.
June 2021
World Ocean Day
Selaine’s response:
I believe we are at a pivotal moment, and we must take urgent action now to safeguard the world’s oceans and protect the precious wildlife that inhabit them. I therefore held a debate in Parliament on World Ocean Day 2021 itself, where I discussed what more can be done to protect and restore our oceans.
As a Marine Conservation Society Blue Carbon Champion in Parliament, I am committed to pushing for a UK wide blue carbon strategy which recognises the vital role marine and coastal ecosystems play in tackling the climate crisis. Blue Carbon is such an important part of our efforts to fight climate change, yet is not something that is currently well or widely understood, so it was fantastic to have this opportunity to debate it with colleagues.
I am pleased that in this vital year for the ocean, the UK will showcase global leadership in tackling key pressures facing the ocean through our COP26 and G7 Presidencies and use our influence to advocate for greater action and global collaboration. It is also great that the UK has accepted the position as Ocean Co-Chair of the High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People.
Between this and the UK led Global Ocean Alliance, there are now 80 countries supporting a target to protect at least 30 per cent of the global ocean by 2030, and Ministers assure me that they are working hard to secure the adoption of this target at the Convention on Biological Diversity Conference of Parties later this year, where the post2020 global biodiversity framework will also be adopted. I am proud that the UK is pushing to protect at least 30% of the global ocean in Marine Protected Areas and other effective area based conservative measures by 2030. But I think we can do more to reach ‘30by30’, and I strongly hope that 2021 will be a marine super year.
Domestically, the UK Marine Strategy supports the vision for ‘clean, healthy, safe, productive and biologically diverse oceans and seas.’ I understand that ministers are currently preparing an update to the UK Marine Strategy Part 3, outlining the programmes of measures that will continue to move the UK towards Good Environmental Status in its seas. Further, it is encouraging that 38% of UK waters are in Marine Protected Areas, and in my Parliamentary debate, and as a Blue Carbon champion, I have continued to advocate that these must be effectively protected. I am particularly pleased that plans to increase protections for England’s waters through a pilot to designate marine sites as Highly Protected Marine Areas have now been launched. These selected sites will see a ban on all activities that could have a damaging effect on wildlife or marine habitats, a crucial part of protecting our oceans and of protecting our environment.
Finally, the UK is driving forward action to reduce plastic pollution in the ocean, through the Commonwealth Clean Ocean Alliance, a growing group of 34 Commonwealth member states. On a local level, I also frequently organise litter picks across North Devon, including on the beaches, as keeping plastic out of oceans is something that all of us can contribute to.
Ministers have also committed up to £70m to help developing countries to prevent plastic waste entering the ocean, and to a new £500m Blue Planet Fund, to help developing countries protect the ocean from key human-generated threats, including pollution.
I was really pleased to see such widespread support from Parliamentary colleagues for protecting and securing our oceans when I held my debate on World Ocean Day, and I look forward to continuing to work with the Government to advance one of the most ambitious climate agendas in the world.
June 2021
Driven Grouse Shooting
Selaine’s response:
I know that many people have strongly held views about this subject, and I want to see a vibrant, working countryside enhanced by a diverse environment here in the UK.
I have met with a number of local shoots to better my knowledge of how they work safely and in compliance with the country’s conservation laws, which are among the toughest in the world.
I understand that game shooting contributes to the goal of a working countryside, especially here in North Devon where so many jobs are directly related to shoots, and further afield, such as in the uplands, where grouse shooting is one of the mainland uses along with grazing and forestry. I therefore do not support a ban.
June 2021
Caged Gamebirds
Selaine’s response:
I have a high regard for animal welfare, which I am pleased is protected by comprehensive and robust legislation. The Animal Welfare Act 2006 already makes it an offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to any animal, including gamebirds.
This legislation is backed up by the statutory Code of Practice for the Welfare of Gamebirds Reared for Sporting Purposes. The code recommends that when birds are housed or penned, the accommodation should be well constructed and managed and of sufficient size to ensure good health and welfare.
Specifically, the code recommends that barren raised cages for breeding pheasants and small barren cages for breeding partridges should not be used and that any system should be appropriately enriched. Keepers are required by law to be familiar with this code, which encourages the adoption of high standards of husbandry. Failure to observe the provisions of this code may be used in support of a prosecution.
These rules are enforced by the Animal and Plant Health Agency, as well as by local authorities, who can both carry out routine welfare inspections and investigate complaints. Prosecutions can be brought where necessary.
I am pleased that the Government has taken action to ban cages or close confinement systems where there is clear scientific evidence that they are detrimental to animal health and welfare. For example, the use of battery cages for laying hens has been banned since 2012.
June 2021
Selaine’s response:
The Government continues to provide a strong safety net through the welfare system for those who need extra support, whilst simultaneously working to support economic recovery and get people back into work as quickly as possible. While there are currently no official statistics on the number of foodbanks, which are independent charitable organisations, the Government added questions on food security to the Family Resources Survey. This will give a better understanding of the lived experiences of families affected by food insecurity.
Universal Credit (UC) has provided a safety net for six million people during the coronavirus pandemic. Advances are available urgently should anyone be in significant financial distress, and the Government has recently lengthened the payback period from 12 months to 24 meaning in effect someone can receive 25 payments over 24 months.
I understand from discussions with my colleagues in the Department for Work and Pensions, the Government prioritised measures that could be quickly and effectively operationalised to benefit those likely to be facing the most financial disruption during the pandemic.
As a member of the Work and Pensions Select Committee I am all too aware of the concerns raised by the Trussell Trust and regularly hear evidence from them and other organisations that work closely with those experiencing food insecurity and we continue to seek solutions to this important issue.
June 2021
Calories on Menus
Selaine’s response:
My colleagues in the Department of Health and Social Care recognise the concerns people with eating disorders may have on measures to reduce obesity, and I support their commitment to striking a careful balance between enabling people to make healthier food and drink choices whilst not negatively impacting on those with or recovering from an eating disorder. I completely appreciate and understand the concerns about calorie labelling at large out-of-home businesses with 250 or more employees.
Alongside work to develop the obesity strategy, an equality assessment was undertaken to understand the impact of these proposals, including on people with eating disorders. My understanding is that, although some research has shown that label use on packaged foods was related to engagement in some unhealthy weight behaviours, there is a larger likelihood of participants engaging with healthy weight control behaviours. With eating disorders on the rise, please let me assure you that tackling these disorders through early and effective treatment remains a key priority of our NHS.
With more than a third of children leaving primary school overweight or obese, and nearly two thirds of adults, it is vital that we equip people with the information to make decisions about their food intake. Information on the energy content of food and drink is already widely available in supermarkets through mandatory nutrition labelling requirements on pre-packaged foods and some restaurants. I know that the Government is committed to striking a careful balance between informing and educating people to make healthier choices, while not negatively impacting people with eating disorders or those in recovery from eating disorders. This issue will, of course, require careful monitoring, and I will certainly keep a close eye going forwards.
May 2021
Snares
Selaine's response:
I am aware of the concerns around the use of snares, which can cause immense suffering to both target and non-target animals. It is an issue my ministerial colleagues are looking at closely as part of the continued drive to maintain the highest animal welfare standards in the world.
When practised to a high standard, and in accordance with the law, snaring can offer an effective means to reduce the harmful impacts of foxes on livestock, game and wildlife. Snares are commonly used in the UK to catch certain animals prior to their killing and current legislation provides strong protection for threatened species and the welfare of trapped animals. Those committing an offence can face prosecution, an unlimited fine or even a custodial sentence.
Snares are controlled in England and Wales under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. This prohibits the use of self-locking snares and the setting of any type of snare in places where they are likely to catch certain non-target animals such as badgers. It also requires snares to be inspected on a daily basis, and snares must not be set where there is evidence of regular use by non-target species
The Animal Welfare Act 2006 prohibits causing unnecessary suffering to animals under the control of man, including those animals caught in traps. Trapped animals should be released from a snare trap as soon as reasonably practicable after discovery to ensure they do not unnecessarily suffer, and not doing so could be a breach of the 2006 Act and could therefore lead to prosecution.
The onus is on trap operators to act within the law and consider their responsibilities in ensuring that their activities do not harm protected species or cause any unnecessary suffering. If you believe an individual is inflicting unnecessary suffering on animals, the matter should be reported to the police.
April 2021
Trespass
Selaine’s response:
I know the value so many people here in North Devon place on access to the countryside, and I would like to reassure you that the new measures which have now been set out by the Secretary of State will not affect ramblers, the right to roam or rights of way. Instead, the new proposed measures will be applied in specific circumstances relating to trespass with intent to reside.
The Home Office consulted on measures to criminalise the act of trespassing when setting up an unauthorised encampment in England and Wales, and ministers also consulted on other measures to strengthen police powers in order to tackle unauthorised encampments. The views expressed throughout the consultation have been considered and have informed the Government’s next steps, including the conditions for the new offence which will be put to parliament for scrutiny.
A person must meet the conditions of the new offence for enforcement action to be taken against them, and the conditions for the new offence seek to ensure that anyone accessing the countryside, including ramblers and hikers passing through privately owned land, will not be caught by the new proposals. My ministerial colleagues are clear that the intention behind the new offence is to deter trespassers from setting up or residing on an unauthorised encampment and to support action to tackle unauthorised encampments where necessary.
April 2021
Inland Water Bill: Rivers
Selaine’s response:
I am delighted that having supported the Rt Hon Phillip Dunne’s Private Member’s Bill, the Sewage (Inland Waters) Bill, that the Government has announced that it will be supporting the measures included within this Bill.
The second reading has now become unnecessary as many of the measures have been agreed within the Storm Overflows Task Force, set up by the Minister last year in response to this Private Members Bill. The Storm Overflows Taskforce, which is made up of Defra, the Environment Agency, Ofwat, Consumer Council for Water, Blueprint for Water and Water UK, has agreed to set a long-term goal to eliminate harm from storm overflows.
Following recommendations from the Taskforce, water companies will also increase transparency around when and how storm overflows are used. The Taskforce update comes as the Government confirms it is also working with Philip Dunne MP in order to make progress on our shared ambitions to tackle sewage pollution in our rivers. I have spoken with members of Surfers Against Sewage, The Environment Agency and South West Water about a number of concerns with spillages onto beaches, our beautiful coast and into our rivers. I welcome this Bill as it will help shine a light on industry operations and help us in our fight against water pollution.
April 2021
Gene Editing
Selaine’s response:
Gene editing has the ability to harness the genetic resources that mother nature has provided, in order to tackle the challenges of our age. This includes breeding crops that perform better, reducing costs to farmers and impacts on the environment, and helping us all adapt to the challenges of climate change.
The potential of gene editing was blocked by a European Court of Justice ruling in 2018, and now that we have left the EU, this country is free to make coherent policy decisions based on science and evidence. Technologies developed in the last decade enable genes to be edited much more quickly and precisely to mimic the natural breeding process, helping to target plant and animal breeding to assist the UK in reaching our vital climate and biodiversity goals, in a safe and sustainable way.
It is important to note that gene editing is different to genetic modification where DNA from one species is introduced to a different one. Gene edited organisms do not contain DNA from different species, and instead only produce changes that could be made slowly using traditional breeding methods.
The Government has now consulted on the issue of gene editing, seeking views on proposals to end certain gene editing organisms from being regulated in the same way as genetic modification, providing they could have been produced naturally or through traditional breeding. This approach has already been adopted by a wide range of countries across the world, including Japan, Australia and Argentina, and the UK Government will now consider the evidence and will set out a response in due course.
I am assured that Ministers will continue to work with farming and environmental groups to develop the right rules and ensure robust controls are in place to maintain the highest food safety standards while supporting the production of healthier food.
March 2021
Oceans
Selaine’s response:
2021 is a vital year for the ocean. Through our COP26 and G7 Presidencies, the UK will showcase global leadership in tackling key pressures facing the ocean, using its influence to advocate for greater action and global collaboration. Ministers also intend to publish an update to the UK Marine Strategy Part 3, outlining the programmes of measures that will continue to move the UK towards Good Environmental Status in its seas.
I have signed up with Sky Ocean Rescue and the WWF to become an MP Ocean Hero, to pledge my commitment to the UK seas through a new Ocean Recovery Strategy on World Ocean’s Day.
As you may know, at the recent One Planet Summit, the UK accepted the position of Ocean Co-Chair of the High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People. Between this, and the UK-led Global Ocean Alliance, there are now over 60 countries supporting a target to protect at least 30% of the global ocean by 2030 as part of the aim for an ambitious post-2020 global biodiversity framework for adoption at the 15th Conference of Parties of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity.
The protection, restoration and management of the marine environment is central to objectives in the Government’s 25 Year Environment Plan. Further, it is encouraging that 38% of UK waters are in Marine Protected Areas and Ministers are focused on ensuring these are effectively protected. Ministers have also stated their intention to pilot Highly Protected Marine Areas in Secretary of State waters, and I look forward to reading the Government's response to Richard Benyon's review on this issue in due course.
Together with Vanuatu, the Government is driving forward ambitious action to reduce plastic pollution in the ocean through the Commonwealth Clean Ocean Alliance, a growing group of 34 Commonwealth member states. The Government has also committed up to £70m to tackle plastic pollution, helping developing countries to prevent plastic waste entering the ocean, and has committed to start negotiations on a new global agreement on marine plastic litter and microplastics.
Finally, Ministers have committed to establishing a new £500m Blue Planet Fund, to help developing countries protect the ocean from key human-generated threats, including pollution.
March 2021
Badgers
Selaine’s response:
The badger cull has been a controversial component of the bovine TB (bTB) eradication strategy, but I understand that the initial areas that have been subject to a cull have seen a significant reduction in incidence of the disease.
On 27 January 2021, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) launched a public consultation alongside a call for views on a range of proposals and longer-term options on cattle and badger control measures. These are in keeping with the Government’s response in March 2020 to Professor Sir Charles Godfray’s 2018 independent review of the bTB strategy.
Routine and targeted TB testing of cattle herds, movement restrictions on infected herds, and rapid detection and removal of cattle which test positive remains the cornerstone of the Government’s strategy, supported by statutory pre- and post-movement testing of cattle and slaughterhouse surveillance. Defra are in the process of increasing the frequency of mandatory surveillance testing across England’s High-Risk Areas (HRA) from annual to every 6 months, with some exceptions for lower risk herds. Defra also remain committed to supporting and strengthening biosecurity to limit the risk and severity of TB breakdowns on cattle farms.
Defra have a substantial and wide-ranging research and development programme, with a particular focus on diagnostics and vaccine development. Their primary TB research goal is to develop a deployable cattle TB vaccine. This work is on track to be completed by 2025, and the goal is to deliver on the significant investment that has been made to date in developing a candidate diagnostic test to detect infected animals among vaccinated animals to enable use of the vaccine. Although a cattle TB vaccine will not be the single solution to the problem of TB, it will be a strong additional tool at Defra’s and farmer’s disposal. Veterinary field trials aimed at generating the necessary evidence to enable UK marketing authorisations are scheduled to get underway in the coming months.
Ministers only ever envisaged that the badger cull would be a phase in the strategy to reduce the weight of the disease in the wildlife population. I am pleased that the ongoing consultation sets out the intent to phase out culling and accelerate the next phases of the strategy, especially improved diagnostic testing. This consultation also includes proposals to stop issuing intensive cull licences for new areas after 2022 and would enable new licences to be cut short after two or three years based on a review of the latest scientific evidence at that time.
Under the new proposals, any new supplementary cull licences, which are granted in regions after intensive culls are complete, would be restricted to two years and would not be reissued afterwards. I understand that some form of culling would continue to be an option in exceptional circumstances to address any local disease flare-ups. In parallel to the consultation, Ministers are also calling for views on possible future measures to accelerate bovine TB eradication in England, such as further improvements to testing, encouraging increased uptake of farm biosecurity measures, and rewarding low risk cattle purchasing behaviour.
It is also encouraging that work on developing a deployable cattle bovine TB vaccine continues at pace and is on track to be completed within the next five years, with field trials scheduled to commence in the coming months.
There is no single answer to tackling bovine TB, but by deploying a range of policy interventions, we can turn the tide on this terrible disease and achieve the long-term objective of eradicating it in England by 2038.
March 2021
Animal-Free Research
Selaine’s response:
Animal research still plays a role in providing vital safety information for potential new medicines. Some aspects of the toxicological assessment of new medicines cannot be adequately assessed in humans, and animal data will be the only kind available.
Without animal testing it is highly likely that many potentially dangerous new medicines would be tested in healthy volunteers and patients in clinical trials, and Ministers believe that this would be quite unacceptable. However, animals are only used when there are no suitable alternatives, and by encouraging new cutting-edge approaches to science we will ensure that standards of animal welfare are improved. I am absolutely opposed to animal tests where alternative approaches could be used.
March 2021
Bomb Disposal and Whales
Selaine’s response:
I agree we should do all we can to protect the welfare of our marine life, especially the whale, and from my conversations with Ministerial colleagues I know they share my thoughts.
I recognise the significant impact that underwater noise from ordnance clearance and other activities can have on vulnerable marine species, and I am therefore pleased that Ministers are working closely with the Marine Management Organisation, nature conservation bodies and marine industries to reduce underwater noise. It is, of course, important that they ensure any clearance method used is both safe and effective.
I am aware that the underwater noise impact of using low order deflagration techniques for unexploded ordnance detonations is currently being researched. Two phases of a Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy funded project to characterise and contrast the acoustic fields generated by unexploded ordnance clearance using high order detonation, and using low-order deflagration, have now been completed. I understand that a third phase has now been initiated to allow further assessment of the clearance options. A potential fourth phase of the work involving offshore field work is also being actively explored in which comparative noise measurements would be made during actual unexploded ordnance clearance campaigns using both deflagration and high order detonations.
The outcomes from the third and fourth phases will allow an informed discussion to take place, however it will be for the regulatory authorities and the statutory nature conservation bodies to consider the best available scientific evidence when providing advice on these matters. I should be noted that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs does not expect to issue formal guidance on the use of low-order deflagration techniques until this research has been completed.
March 2021
Climate and Ecology Bill
Selaine's response:
Tackling climate change is a priority for me and my Ministerial colleagues, and I am proud that the UK was the first G7 country to legislate to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. I understand that this Bill has been developed by campaign members of Extinction Rebellion, Big Ask and Power for the People.
The Bill seeks to examine the UK’s global carbon footprint, such as indirect UK emissions in our supply chain which may affect developing countries. I am encouraged that the UK remains committed to environmentally sustainable development as set out in the Millennium Development Goals and the Sustainable Development Goals. In January 2021, the Prime Minister announced that the UK will spend at least £3 billion of international climate finance on nature and biodiversity over five years. The funding will deliver transformational change in protecting biodiversity-rich land and ocean, shifting to sustainable food production and supply, and supporting the livelihoods of the world's poorest.
I do not believe citizen's assemblies have advantages over conventional policy making in this context. Previous experiences in Canada, for example, included citizens in the decision making process, however they failed to produce impactful or long-lasting results. I know that a Climate Assembly UK was formed as a result of work conducted by Parliamentary Select Committees. Ministers have assured me the Government will be looking closely at the findings, however I welcome that many of their recommendations, which were published in their report, are already either in place or in the pipeline as a result of the Government working towards net zero. Achieving net zero will affect everyone and it is important that we work together to achieve it.
While I welcome the increased awareness and debate this Bill brings, I do not believe that it is required as work is already underway.
March 2021
Fox Hunting
Selaine's response:
I appreciate the strong feelings many people have on this issue and I share concerns for the welfare of our wildlife. Fox hunting is banned under the Hunting Act 2004, and for an offence to be committed the behaviour in question must violate the Act’s provisions.
Since the introduction of the Hunting Act 2004 many hunts have turned to trail hunting as an alternative to live quarry hunting. This involves a pack of hounds following an artificially laid, animal-based scent. For an offence to be committed it is necessary to prove that a wild animal is being hunted intentionally. If any wild animal was hunted intentionally, this could lead to a prosecution and an unlimited fine. Between 2013 and 2019, a total of 471 individuals were prosecuted under the Hunting Act and 227 individuals were found guilty. Anyone who believes that an offence has taken place during a hunt, including during a trail hunt, should report the matter to the police.
While it is not in my position to comment on a specific case, I am aware that all trail hunting has been suspended on Forestry England land while the police investigate content of these webinars. It is up to each Local Authority to decide whether trail hunting can take place on public land within its jurisdiction. Likewise, it is up to an individual public body to decide what activity takes place on its land. I know, for example, Nottinghamshire County Council banned trail hunting on its land in 2019 and Forestry England can suspend events or stop them completely if illegal activity takes place.
March 2021
Greener Educational Buildings
Selaine's response:
I see the UK’s future as being a world leader in the green economy. I believe we have made a great start on this with the pledge to reach net-zero by 2050, and I welcomed news earlier this year that Britain had been running coal free for a period of months.
That said, there is certainly more we can do. It is encouraging to hear the Prime Minister commit to making the UK the world leader in low cost clean power generation, and I welcome that a range of green recovery schemes have been announced. This includes over £3 billion of investment to transform energy efficiency in homes and public buildings; over £1 billion of support for ultra-low emission vehicles; £800 million to capture carbon from power stations and industry; £640 million in a Nature Climate Fund; and £100 million for research and development into Direct Air Capture technologies.
I am encouraged that the Department for Education was already encouraging schools to reduce their impact on the environment prior to the Covid-19 outbreak. Various schemes are available to help schools, including a capital investment programme that will be worth £22 billion between 2017 and 2021. Schools are also able to access the Salix loan scheme, which provides funding to the public sector with loans for projects to improve energy, reduce bills and reduce carbon emissions.
February 2021
Polystyrene Body Boards
Selaine's response:
It is brilliant news that Westward Ho! have banned retailers selling polystyrene body boards, and I fully support them in doing so. Polystyrene body boards have an impact on the natural environment and I will happily support any other seaside location that chooses to follow Westward Ho!. I have been engaging with Plastic Free North Devon for some time now and support their fantastic work. To get something banned in law is very difficult, which is why I believe that local approaches are the way forward in reducing the number of polystyrene body boards here in the UK.
Additionally, Ministers are taking steps through the Environment Bill to keep products in circulation for longer, requiring products to be designed to be durable, repairable, and recyclable, as well as legislating for the use of extended producer responsibility schemes in a way that incentivises more resource efficient design.
February 2021
The Pig Husbandry (Farrowing) Bill:
Selaine's response:
We have some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world and a strong track record for raising the bar when it comes to welfare measures, such as banning battery cages for laying hens, sow stalls and veal crates, and introducing CCTV in all slaughterhouses in England. I know that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) intends to build on this and are currently examining the evidence around the use of cages for farm animals, including farrowing crates.
The UK Government has made clear that farrowing crates should no longer be used for sows, and I welcome that the pig welfare code clearly states that “the aim is for farrowing crates to no longer be necessary and for any new system to protect the welfare of the sow, as well as her piglets”. DEFRA’s pig welfare code of practice came into force on 1 March 2020 and it states the aim is for farrowing crates to no longer be necessary and for any new system to protect the welfare of the sow, as well as her piglets. It is worth pointing out that the UK has led the way in improving the welfare of pigs.
February 2021
Deregulation of Gene Editing
Selaine's response:
Gene editing has the ability to harness the genetic resources that mother nature has provided, in order to tackle the challenges of our age. This includes breeding crops that perform better, reducing costs to farmers and impacts on the environment, and helping us all adapt to the challenges of climate change.
The potential of gene editing was blocked by a European Court of Justice ruling in 2018. Now that we have left the EU, the UK is free to make coherent policy decisions based on science and evidence. I know that technologies developed in the last decade enable genes to be edited much more quickly and precisely to mimic the natural breeding process, helping to target plant and animal breeding to help the UK reach its vital climate and biodiversity goals in a safe and sustainable way.
It is important to note that gene editing is different to genetic modification where DNA from one species is introduced to a different one. Gene edited organisms do not contain DNA from different species, and instead only produce changes that could be made slowly using traditional breeding methods. Currently, gene editing is regulated in the same way as genetic modification.
The Government is now consulting on the issue of gene editing, focusing on ending certain gene editing organisms from being regulated in the same way as genetic modification, so long as they could have been produced naturally or through traditional breeding. I understand that this approach has already been adopted by a wide range of countries across the world, including Japan, Australia and Argentina.
I know that Ministers will continue to work with farming and environmental groups to develop the right rules and ensure robust controls are in place to maintain the highest food safety standards while supporting the production of healthy food.
February 2021
Clear Waters
Selaine's response:
I am enthusiastic about promoting sport and recreation in our North Devon countryside, and understand the positive benefits outdoor activities can have both physically and mentally, especially during the pandemic. However, I am also mindful of the rights of communities and people who live or work on land adjoining water, and of the need to maintain our rivers' environmental integrity. We must seek to maintain this delicate balance to keep the enjoyment of our rivers and inland waterways by all users and interests. I believe this is best achieved through consensus and by local agreement.
I therefore support continuing to use locally agreed, voluntary agreements to increase river access for walkers, swimmers and non-powered craft. The rights of other users, as well as protection for wildlife and the environment, are important considerations. These sensitive issues can best be dealt with at a local level rather than through a one size fits all approach decided in Westminster.
I also fully support my ministerial colleagues' aim to make this the first generation which leaves the environment in a better state than we found it and I am pleased that over 50% of canals have now been restored, enabling an increasing number of people to enjoy the outdoors and get close to water.
February 2021
Wellbeing Week
Selaine's response:
I believe it is absolutely right that there should be sustainable thinking in Government, and I would like to assure you that the wellbeing of future generations is at the heart of UK Government policy. We are the first major industrialised country to have set a legal target for zero carbon emissions and I welcome the Prime Minister’s Ten Point Plan which will allow the UK to forge ahead in eradicating the UK’s contribution to climate change.
Caroline Lucas and Lord Bird have brought forward Private Member’s Bills with the objective of putting sustainable thinking at the heart of public policy decisions. This legislation imposes obligations to act in accordance with a sustainable development principle.
I do not believe, however, that the Bills as they stand provide the right mechanisms for achieving these important objectives and have reservations about creating a new public body with additional duties. The Government has, however, listened carefully to the arguments made in support of these Bills and it remains committed to promoting the economic, environmental and social wellbeing of the country, never more important than in the context of this current pandemic.
February 2021
Inland Waters Bill
Selaine's response:
I am delighted that having supported the Rt Hon Phillip Dunne’s Private Member’s Bill, the Sewage (Inland Waters) Bill, that the Government has announced that it will be supporting the measures included within this Bill. The second reading has now become unnecessary as many of the measures have been agreed within the Storm Overflows Task Force, set up by the Minister last year in response to this Private Member’s Bill.
The Storm Overflows Taskforce, which is made up of Defra, the Environment Agency, Ofwat, Consumer Council for Water, Blueprint for Water and Water UK, has agreed to set a long-term goal to eliminate harm from storm overflows. Following recommendations from the Taskforce, water companies will also increase transparency around when and how storm overflows are used. The Taskforce update comes as the Government confirms it is also working with Philip Dunne MP in order to make progress on our shared ambitions to tackle sewage pollution in our rivers.
I have spoken with members of Surfers Against Sewage, The Environment Agency and South West Water about concerns with spillages onto beaches along our beautiful coast and into our rivers. I supported the original Bill, and welcome this outcome, as it will help shine a light on industry operations and help us in our fight against water pollution.
February 2021
Animal Cruelty Sentencing and Animal Sentience
Selaine's response:
It is clear that animals are sentient beings who can feel pain and suffering, and I would like to reassure you that strong action is being taken to reduce their risk of harm.
The Government is committed to making any necessary changes to UK law in a rigorous and comprehensive way to ensure animal sentience is legally recognised after the transition period and legislation will be brought forward when parliamentary time allows. This also includes ensuring the UK has an effective means of making sure animal sentience is reflected in future policy decisions. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is currently assessing how best to support Government departments in considering the welfare needs of sentient animals when they are developing and implementing Government policy, as well as continuing to engage closely with relevant organisations and authorities to enhance its policies on this issue further.
There is no place in this country for animal cruelty, and we must ensure that those who abuse animals are met with the full force of the law. I am therefore pleased that the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill has now passed through the Public Bill Committee, backed by the Government, and I look forward to it coming back to the House for the Report Stage and Third Reading. I will continue to do all I can to support the Bill’s swift passage through both the Commons and the Lords.
I am pleased that the new Bill will enable tougher prison sentences for the most serious perpetrators of animal cruelty, from the current maximum of 6 months to up to 5 years. I believe that this increase in sentencing will send a clear message that this behaviour will not be tolerated. The maximum 5 year sentence will become one of the toughest punishments in Europe, strengthening the UK’s position as a global leader on animal welfare.
I am aware that a public consultation found 70% of people supported the proposals for tougher prison sentences. I am encouraged that the planned change in law means the courts will be able to take a tougher approach to cases such as dog fighting, abuse of puppies and kittens, or gross neglect of farm animals.
I am proud that this Government is taking further steps to elevate our reputation for animal welfare in this country. Ministers are taking advantage of our departure from the EU to deliver manifesto commitments to end excessively long journeys for slaughter and fattening of livestock. Alongside this, they are continuing to work on developing new laws on animal sentience and cracking down on the illegal smuggling of dogs and puppies, and remain committed to banning pet primates, introducing mandatory cat microchipping and implementing the Ivory Act.
January 2021
Emergency use of Neonicotinoids
Selaine's response:
I and the Government continue to support the restrictions on neonicotinoids to protect pollinators, and emergency authorisations for pesticides are only granted in exceptional circumstances where diseases or pests cannot be controlled by any other reasonable means. These emergency authorisations can provide short term availability of a product if the applicant can demonstrate that this addresses a danger which cannot be contained by any other reasonable means, that the use will be limited and controlled and that the necessary protection of people and of the environment can be achieved.
Emergency authorisations are also used by countries across Europe. I know that 10 EU countries including Belgium, Denmark and Spain have granted emergency authorisations for neonicotinoid seed treatments since 2018. Under EU legislation, Member States may grant emergency authorisations in exceptional circumstances. I can assure you that the UK’s approach to the use of emergency authorisations has not changed as a result of the UK’s exit from the EU.
The application for the use of Syngenta’s Cruiser SB on the 2021 sugar beet crop is for England only and the duration of authorisation is strictly limited to the period required to allow supply of the product. Furthermore, sugar beet is a non-flowering crop that is only grown in the East of England.
This exceptional use of Syngenta’s Cruiser SB will be strictly controlled and conditions of the authorisation include reduced application rate as well as a prohibition on any flowering crop being planted in the same field where the product has been used within 22 months of sugar beet and a prohibition on oilseed rape being planted within 32 months of sugar beet.
Protecting pollinators remains a priority for the Government. The National Pollinator Strategy, published in 2014, is a ten year plan which sets out how the Government, conservation groups, farmers, beekeepers and researchers can work together to improve the status of the approximately 1,500 pollinating insect species in England.
January 2021
Pet Passports
Selaine's response:
Under the EU Pet Travel Scheme, owners can obtain a pet passport that allows them to travel with their animals to and from certain other countries, provided they meet the requirements for the scheme which include appropriate vaccination and microchipping.
I know that the non-commercial movement of cats, dogs and ferrets is covered by the EU Pet Travel Scheme which has three categorisations of third country. These are:
• Part 1 listed;
• Part 2 listed; and
• Unlisted.
Third countries are able apply to the European Commission to be listed under the EU Pet Travel Scheme.
I understand that the UK submitted its application to become a Part 1 listed third country in January 2019 and resubmitted the application in February 2020. Should the UK become a Part 1 listed country, there would be little change to the current arrangements, with only minor changes needed for documentation and, in most cases, no change for owners from what they currently need to do in terms of their animal’s health preparation. It is now for the Commission to consider the UK’s application for listed status.
November 2020
Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs) and Angling
Selaine's response:
I have received a number of emails from constituents who are concerned about HPMAs and the effect they may have on recreational angling. I have raised this with the relevant Minister and I enclose their response below:
Agriculture Bill
Selaine's response:
A number of constituents have contacted me regarding the Agriculture Bill. I voted against the amendments and I wanted to set out why in detail. Please forgiven the length of this response but I thought it best to be thorough.
First, on standards, the Government will not compromise on our existing standards. Any new trade deals must mean high levels of environmental protection, animal welfare, and high food standards. The EU Withdrawal Act will transfer existing food safety provisions into UK law, including existing import requirements. Our restrictions on imports will preclude things like chlorinated chicken and hormone-fed beef from coming to our shores.
The UK’s food standards, for both domestic production and imports, are overseen the by the Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland. These are independent agencies and provide advice to the UK and Scottish governments. They will continue to do so in order to ensure that all food imports comply with the UK’s high safety standards. Decisions on these standards are a matter for the UK and will be made separately from any trade agreement.
When it comes to negotiating new trade deals, agreed texts will be laid before Parliament alongside an explanatory memorandum and final impact assessment. MPs retain the power to withhold consent from trade agreements and if I believe a particular trade deal is not in our best interests, that is what I will do.
There are a number of issues with the rejected amendments with regard to their specific content. Amendments 12 and 16 created conditions which do not exist under any existing UK or EU agreement. It is unlikely that other countries would agree to the requirements stipulated by these amendments, and in some cases it would not even be possible for them to do so.
Making sure we do not allow trade deals to undermine our environmental and animal welfare standards is a cause I passionately support. The Lords amendments may have sounded perfectly reasonable but they would require all countries to have processes in place to show that they meet thousands of pages of UK environmental and animal welfare legislation. The cost would be prohibitive and also unnecessary. We import bananas from many countries including the Dominican Republic, Belize and Cameroon. We import coffee from Indonesia, Ghana and Vietnam and black tea from Kenya. We do all this under existing (EU) rules. If we had passed this amendment, a huge number of food imports from developing countries would have been banned.
I want us to be ambitious in the types of trade agreements we are seeking to strike but these conditions would make any trade agreements hard to negotiate and less beneficial for UK farmers or consumers.
If these amendments had succeeded we could import coffee from Vietnam if we did not have a trade agreement, but if we did have a trade agreement, we would likely have to ban coffee imports. Does that sound right? Our trade deals would become anti-trade deals. This would have produced an indefensible barrier to making new and better trade deals.
There are many other oddities that the amendments would have thrown up. Our geography and climate mean that we need strict legal controls on nitrate concentration in soils, yet these are inappropriate for many other countries. We have laws on what time of year farmers are allowed to cut hedges, yet it would be completely inappropriate to enforce these rules on countries that do not use hedges in the same way as we do.
The UK imported an average of £213mn of black tea per year between 2017 and 2019, of which £142mn was from Kenya. Similarly, coffee imports to the UK totalled, on average, £108m per year within the same time period, the majority of which was from Vietnam. All developing countries which produce coffee beans exported to the UK, such as Ghana and Indonesia, would be expected to provide evidence that they met UK carbon emission targets as set out in the Climate Change Act. Our Climate Act is not appropriate for many developing countries; yes, we want them to do more, and free trade deals can be a way of doing this, but to ask them to use our specific targets would be unreasonable and would make any future free trade deal impossible.
That is why the Government has agreed with campaigners to set up an Independent Trade and Agriculture Commission. This means we can look at each individual trade deal rather than using these amendments which would impose blanket regulations on every country, regardless of whether they were suitable. The Commission will advise on how best the UK can seize new export opportunities, while ensuring animal welfare and environmental standards in food production are not undermined.
Not supporting these amendments does not mean that I or any other MPs do not want high animal welfare, food or environmental standards or that I am not supporting farmers. There must be room for reasonable disagreement in politics and it is flatly untrue to suggest that anyone not supporting these amendments has an ulterior motive. Of course I want to support farmers in North Devon, especially given how central they are to our way of life and economy. There are, however, disagreements about the best way to do this.
We all want the best for our producers, processors and consumers. These amendments were not the right way forward for anyone.
My colleague Anthony Browne, MP for South Cambridgeshire, and Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group on the Environment has also written a detailed article on the issue.
https://www.conservativehome.com/platform/2020/10/anthony-browne-are-we…;
October 2020
Compulsory Microchipping of Cats
Selaine's response:
The Government is committed to improving the welfare of cats and has a manifesto commitment to introduce compulsory microchipping of cats. Last year, Defra published a call for evidence on compulsory microchipping for cats, which attracted over 3,000 responses. I am aware that the responses are now being assessed, with a view to publishing the summary of these in due course. In the meantime, I would encourage all cat owners to make the sensible choice to microchip their felines, ensuring relevant records are kept up to date.
I will be attending the virtual drop-in with Cats Protection on 20th October, and I look forward to finding out more about the argument for compulsory microchipping.
September 2020
Plastic Pollution Crisis
Selaine's response:
As a consequence of the pandemic, we have seen a resurgence in the use of single-use plastics. This is a deeply disappointing development and whilst the use of single-use plastics has been unavoidable in some cases, we must redouble our efforts to see production and sale drastically reduced.
I have been in contact with Surfers Against Sewage about this issue, and I have tabled a Written Parliamentary Question to the Environment Secretary about this.
Regarding the Environment Bill, it is due to be considered in front of a Public Bill Committee which will report on 29th September. When the Bill comes back before the House of Commons, I will carefully consider any amendments and I will seek assurances from the Secretary of State about his commitment to tackling plastic pollution.
September 2020
Religious Meat Preparation
Selaine's response:
I want to encourage the highest standards of welfare at slaughter and would prefer all animals to be stunned. However, it is also important to respect the rights of Jews and Muslims to eat meat prepared in accordance with their religious beliefs.
Religious meat preparation is only permitted to be carried out by licensed individuals in approved abattoirs. Religious meat preparation is not permitted in any other place, even for personal consumption. There is no national or EU requirement to display the method of preparation on meat products but where this is included it must be accurate. Consumers should have the necessary information available to them to make an informed choice about their food, and looking forward, the Government has an opportunity to review food labelling to make sure that consumers can have confidence in the food that they buy.
I will follow this issue as the Government reviews its rules on labelling but I hope that the strict measures imposed on religious meat production provide some reassurance.
September 2020
Animal Testing after Brexit
Selaine's response:
Ministers have stated their determination that there should be no need for any additional animal testing for a chemical that has already been registered to EU Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH). After the transition period, the UK will be able to establish its own independent chemical regime. Although both the UK and EU will operate REACH frameworks, the two systems will not be linked. This means that companies wishing to retain access to the UK market will be required to notify and submit registration data to the Health and Safety Executive to confirm the registrations and ensure compliance with UK REACH.
As I understand it, the data that supports each substance's registration in REACH is not owned by individual companies or the European Chemicals Agency, but by a commercial consortium of companies. Although there will be some UK companies that already own that data, others will need to negotiate access to fulfil the UK requirements. The Government has set out that to enable businesses to meet the separate requirements of the two markets, the UK and EU could, as part of a Chemicals Annex, agree data and information sharing mechanisms. I am aware that the UK is continuing to negotiate a deal on data sharing with the EU.
September 2020
Badger Cull and Bovine TB
Selaine's response:
The badger cull has led to a significant reduction in the disease, but no one wants to continue the cull of this protected species indefinitely. That is why the Government asked Sir Charles Godfray to conduct a review, which concluded in October 2018. Earlier this year, in response to that review, the Government set out its intended next steps, focused around three key priorities.
The current vaccine will never provide full protection, so I am pleased that funding will be made available to accelerate the research and trial work needed with the aim of having a deployable vaccine in the next five years. Alongside this, an exit strategy from the intensive culling of badgers will begin. As soon as possible, a pilot Government-funded badger vaccination will be introduced in at least one area where the four-year cull cycle has concluded, with simultaneous surveillance of disease. The aim is to only allow future culls where the evidence points to a significant reservoir of Bovine TB in badgers.
Finally, the Government will invest in the deployment of better, more frequent and more diverse cattle testing so that we are able to detect the presence of the disease earlier and remove it from cattle herds faster. I am pleased that world-leading Bovine TB cattle vaccination trials are also set to get underway in England and Wales as a result of a major breakthrough by Government scientists. These trials enable work to accelerate towards planned deployment of a cattle vaccine by 2025, in the latest milestone to eradicate this highly damaging animal disease.
Ministers hope that any remaining areas who join the current cull programme in the next few years will then wind down by the mid to late 2020s. There is no single answer to tackling the scourge of Bovine TB but by deploying a range of policy interventions, we can turn the tide on this terrible disease.
September 2020
Air pollution and fine particulate matter (PM 2.5)
Selaine's response:
I strongly believe that we need to take urgent action to reduce the amount of air pollution in North Devon but also across the whole United Kingdom. Through the Environment Bill, an ambitious, legally binding target will be set to reduce fine particulate matter (PM 2.5), and local powers will be increased to address the sources of air pollution. Our air pollution targets will be the most ambitious in the world.
The Government is committed to taking action on PM 2.5, as it is the pollutant that has the most significant impact on health. Ministers are developing a clear evidence-based process for setting the PM 2.5 target introduced in the Environment Bill. This process will involve thorough analysis and independent expert advice, considering economic, social and technological factors. It will also involve detailed analysis to assess what additional action would be needed to achieve potential targets.
August 2020
Hen Harriers
Selaine's response:
I recognise the conservation and economic benefits that shooting sports bring to rural communities. A study in 2010 by the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust showed that predator control resulted in significant increases in the breeding success of ground nesting birds such as curlew, golden plover and lapwing. I believe that individuals should be free to manage wildlife within the law, and that the Government should only intervene when there is good reason to do so.
All wild birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and there are strong penalties in place for offences committed against birds of prey and other wildlife, with most wildlife crimes carrying up to an unlimited fine and/or a six-month custodial sentence. To address concerns about illegal killing of birds of prey, senior Government and enforcement officers have identified raptor persecution as a national wildlife crime priority. The National Wildlife Crime Unit monitors and gathers intelligence on wildlife crime, including raptor persecution, and aids police forces in their investigations when required.
The Government is very concerned about hen harrier populations, which is why we took the lead on the Hen Harrier Action Plan. This sets out what will be done to increase hen harrier populations in England and includes measures to stop illegal persecution. A copy of the plan is available on gov.uk. C
The Joint Action Plan was published in January 2016 and I believe that it remains the best way to restore hen harrier populations.
It contains six actions which individually can bring benefits for harriers, but when combined, underpin each other and have the potential to deliver strong outcomes. It includes three measures to stamp out illegality, a trial toolkit comprising two measures for land owners to safely accommodate hen harriers on grouse moors and a measure to reintroduce them to suitable habitat in other parts of England. These six complementary actions have the potential to deliver strong outcomes and set out the expected benefits from each action, who is going to lead actions and the timescales for them to be achieved.
Ministers have always been clear of the need to phase out rotational burning of protected blanket bog to conserve these vulnerable habitats. Real progress is being made in promoting sustainable alternatives and I am pleased to hear that legislation is being looked at which could help achieve this. Ministers have also been encouraging landowners to adopt sustainable options and continue to work with them constructively. The England Peat Strategy will be published later this year which will detail further how we can protect, restore, and reduce damage to our peatlands.
August 2020
Supertrawlers
Selaine's response:
The Common Fisheries Policy has restricted our ability to implement fisheries management measures within offshore Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The Fisheries Bill proposes a new power to allow the introduction of measures for conservation purposes.
The Fisheries Bill currently going through Parliament will help to protect our marine resources and develop plans to restore our fish stock back to more sustainable levels. This builds on a manifesto commitment which promised to introduce a legal commitment to fish sustainably as we become an independent coastal state once again.
As set out in the Withdrawal Agreement, during the transition period, we have agreed that we will continue to apply current fisheries rules and shared access to waters will continue until the end of 2020. While we are still part of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), EU registered vessels are legally entitled to fish in our waters.
We will automatically take back control of our waters, and others’ right to fish in them, at the end of 2020. For the first time in 40 years, we will be free to decide who can access our waters to fish and on what terms.
The Fisheries Bill prohibits any commercial fishing vessel (including foreign-registered vessels) from operating in UK waters without a licence. It also provides powers to attach conditions (such as the areas that can be fished, species that can be caught and the type of fishing gear that can be used) to fishing vessel licences. Foreign vessels operating in UK waters will have to follow UK rules, including the conditions that are attached to their commercial fishing licence.
I have made clear to Ministers the strength of feeling in North Devon that supertrawlers should not be able to operate in protected waters. Leaving the European Union gives us the opportunity to do this, and I will continue to engage with Ministers on this.#
July 2020
Heat Pumps
Selaine's response:
Heat pumps are essential if we are to achieve net-zero carbon.
The argument for the 45kW cap is that this will target support where upfront costs are a particular barrier in transitioning to low-carbon heat. Typically, these installations are in households or small and medium-size enterprises. I do, however, recognise your concern that many bigger schemes need support too, and the consultation expressly seeks views on this very point. Both the consultation on future support for low carbon heat and on closure of and proposed reforms to the non-domestic Renewable Heat Incentive have closed and the Government is analysing the responses. However, as I have heard from several constituents on this, I have ensured that the Minister's office is aware of concerns about the suggested cap.
It has been pointed out to me that in the recent Budget, the Chancellor announced a £270 million Green Heat Network Fund which will fund large-heat pumps, solar thermal installations and waste-heat recovery in heat networks between 2022 and 2025. I understand that the Government will be consulting later this year on scheme design which will offer the sector to make the case for supporting larger heat pump projects. I am confident that with the right support they will play a massive role in Britain in decarbonising heat.
While we need target incentives correctly, I agree this is best achieved by consulting with industry and I would encourage you to respond to both consultations.
July 2020
General Licences
Selaine's response:
I completely understand how important the issue of general licences is, especially for a constituency like North Devon. The Government are currently analysing the evidence of their review into longer-term licensing arrangements. It is important that this is concluded as quickly as possible, but that the Department come to the right conclusion.
I am pleased that six general licences for the control of wild birds have now been reissued on a temporary basis ahead of new licences coming into force on 1 January 2021. No action is required by licence users, beyond the ongoing requirement to act in accordance with the licence conditions. DEFRA intends to publish new licences in November to allow user groups to become acquainted with the changes before they officially come into force.
As a result of the above, wild bird control on and near European sites and lethal control of gulls have been via individual licence this year. I appreciate the frustrations regarding individual licensing, and Ministers are working closely with Natural England to ensure that these issues are sorted as quickly as possible. I accept that many constituents have concerns about Natural England’s management of this, and I will make sure that Ministers have this reiterated to them.
July 2020
Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Alerts
Selaine's response
Ensuring we have clean bathing waters in North Devon is vitally important for our environment, public health and our local economy. I take the issue very seriously and have been concerned that a number of constituents have contacted me regarding the reported Combined Sewer Overflow incidents in several of our coastal villages.
I have spoken with South West Water (SWW) to better understand the cause of these CSO alerts. Several MPs offices have been in touch with SWW with similar alerts in other parts of Devon and Cornwall. In their response they said:
“CSOs are the legacy of older combined sewer systems where sewage and surface water are removed in the same pipe. They act as a legal safety valve, helping homes from being flooded during intense or prolonged rainfall by temporarily discharging into watercourses and eventually the sea. The CSO will trigger due to high volumes of surface water and roof drainage being discharged into the sewers during wet weather from the older parts of the sewerage network. Consequently, the discharge is very diluted and the impact is limited and temporary. The Environment Agency issues permits for CSOs and regulate what we do to ensure we comply with strict environmental laws.
“Whilst recognising that there are now serious calls to remove CSOs entirely from the sewerage system they do act as vital safety valves to protect homes and property from sewer flooding. To remove them would require the full separation of all surface water from the sewerage system and would incur significant disruption to towns and villages costing many billions across the UK significantly increasing customer bills.
“The Clean Sweep programme transformed bathing waters in the South West by adding 40 sewage treatment works and the equivalent of 86 Olympic-sized swimming pools of extra storm water storage, at a cost of £2billion. Before Clean Sweep almost 40% of the region’s homes routinely spilled untreated raw sewage into the sea.
South West Water has a near real-time bathing water information service, BeachLive (www.beachlive.co.uk). This provides free alerts, through a web site and mobile app, when CSOs may affect bathing water quality, so informed decisions can be taken by both the public and beach managers.”
I am reassured that the consequences of these CSO incidents are only temporary and that they are working to address any underlying issues, especially those in Combe Martin, where I am working closely with SWW, the Environment Agency, the Parish Council and Combe Martin Water Watch Group to tackle concerns around bathing water quality.
For a full factsheet on CSOs and the work SWW are carrying out please click here.
July 2020
Agriculture Bill
Selaine's response:
“A large number of constituents have contacted my about the Agriculture Bill, the creation of a Food Standards Commission, and food standards in future trade deals. I would like to address each of these issues below but first, I want to make it absolutely clear that I will never support the lowering of our animal welfare or food production standards. Rejecting the amendments to the Agriculture Bill is entirely consistent with that commitment. However, I remain in constant contact with Ministers about this, and I have raised the concerns of constituents directly. I also raised this issue in the House of Commons on 9th June.
The Agriculture Bill makes a series of commitments on domestic food production, something I know a lot of farmers are concerned about. The Bill, after lobbying from myself and other colleagues with significant agricultural sectors, now includes a specific commitment to encouraging domestic food production. The Government will also be required to report on food security, and I know the Environment Secretary wants this Bill to lead to more of our food being produced here, and it is not true to characterise the Government’s position as wanting cheaper imports to replace our domestic production base.
We are now moving towards a system which does not reward farmers based on how much land they own, but on how they use that land. Farmers will be rewarded for providing ‘public goods’, which will encourage environmentally-friendly farming and increased domestic production of food. One of the lessons of the pandemic has surely been that we should produce more of what we consume here in the UK.
The Government have said that they will establish a Trade and Agriculture Commission, as many constituents and the National Farmers Union have asked for. Work is now ongoing to agree the terms of reference of the Commission, and I will engage fully with this process to ensure that is protects food standards.
The EU Withdrawal Act also rolls over all the existing EU food safety provisions and import requirements, meaning that we will prevent the import of inferior foods such as chlorinated chicken and hormone-treated beef. Any changes to these standards would require new legislation to come before the House of Commons and therefore MPs’ approval.
I have been contacted about amendments to the Agriculture Bill on food production standards. First, as above, our current import standards will prevent a lot of the products people are most concerned about from coming to the UK. Second, whilst I agreed with the intention of the proposed amendments, they would have had serious unforeseen effects that would weaken our ability to strike trade deals. If passed, the amendment would likely have prevented trade deals with some of our biggest trading partners, and the UK would have difficulty in rolling over existing trade deals such as with Japan. This would threaten our farmers’ exports, and potentially disrupt our existing food supply by preventing the import of products which up until now have been permitted. The prescriptive nature of the amendment would have made it practically impossible for the Government to comply before the end of the transition period, and we would face wider trade disruption as a result.
Finally, I have been in regular contact with the Secretary of State for International Trade and the Secretary of State for the Environment about this. I am continuing to raise this issue to reiterate that I will not accept lower food or animal welfare standards. Please see their joint letter below which clearly sets out the Government’s position.”
July 2020
Food Standards and Future Trade Deals
Selaine's response:
In response to a large number of constituents concerned; I am supportive of the Government position thanks to these commitments made in writing by the Secretaries of State for Trade, and Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. I will not support a lowering of food standards in our trade agreements.
June 2020
Animal Testing
Selaine's response:
Animal research still plays an important role in providing vital safety information for potential new medicines. It is worth remembering that, as a result of findings from animal studies, a large number of potential new drugs never get as far as being tested in humans. Some aspects of the toxicological assessment of new medicines cannot be adequately assessed in humans, and animal data will be the only kind available.
Without animal testing it is highly likely that a large number of potentially dangerous new medicines would be tested in healthy volunteers and patients in clinical trials, and I know Ministers believe that this would be quite unacceptable. However, animals are only used when there are no suitable alternatives, and by encouraging new cutting-edge approaches to science we will ensure that standards of animal welfare are improved.
I fully support all steps to establish new methods and to support the life sciences and research industry. However, existing scientific research methods ensure that, by the time medicines reach clinical trial, risks are significantly reduced.
May 2020
Caged Birds
Selaine's response:
I share your high regard for animal welfare, which I am pleased is protected by comprehensive and robust legislation. The Animal Welfare Act 2006 already makes it an offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to any animal, including gamebirds.
This legislation is backed up by the statutory Code of Practice for the Welfare of Gamebirds Reared for Sporting Purposes. The code recommends that when birds are housed or penned, the accommodation should be well constructed and managed and of sufficient size to ensure good health and welfare.
Specifically, the code recommends that barren raised cages for breeding pheasants and small barren cages for breeding partridges should not be used and that any system should be appropriately enriched. Keepers are required by law to be familiar with this code, which encourages the adoption of high standards of husbandry. Failure to observe the provisions of this code may be used in support of a prosecution.
These rules are enforced by the Animal and Plant Health Agency, as well as by local authorities, who can both carry out routine welfare inspections and investigate complaints. Prosecutions can be brought where necessary.
I am pleased that the Government has taken action to ban cages or close confinement systems where there is clear scientific evidence that they are detrimental to animal health and welfare. For example, the use of battery cages for laying hens has been banned since 2012.
May 2020
Bats and the Environment Bill
Selaine's response:
The Government has committed to developing a Nature Recovery Network and, in the long term, to create or restore 500,000 hectares of wildlife-rich habitat outside the protected site series. A new framework for Local Nature Recovery Strategies will be legislated for in the Environment Bill, to help support the Nature Recovery Network - creating places that are richer in wildlife.
The Bill will also require the preparation and publication of Local Nature Recovery Strategies, mapping nature-rich habitats, so that investment can be targeted where it will make the most difference. The Government will provide data, guidance, and advice, but these local plans will embrace local knowledge to strengthen links between neighbouring communities and support the wider Network.
The Office for Environmental Protection (OEP) will scrutinise Government policy to ensure the environment is at the heart of decision making. Crucially, it will have the power to run its own independent investigations and enforce environmental law, including taking government and other public bodies to court where necessary. I believe that it is vital we have the required protections and mechanisms in place to protect our wildlife.
March 2020
Animal Welfare & Food Standards and Future Trade Deals
Selaine's Response
I can assure you that food and animal welfare standards will not be reduced in the pursuit of trade deals. Our manifesto commits us to maintaining and defending our high standards of food safety, animal welfare and environmental protection as we embark on our trade negotiations from around the world. Any future trade deal must work for British farmers and consumers. Legislation has already been passed which will mean EU standards on food such as chlorinated chicken have come into UK law. EU regulations on hormone-treated beef are already part of UK law. These prevent the use of growth hormones in imports and domestic production.
The Government has published its mandate for the trade negotiations between the UK and the US, and it makes clear that we will not compromise on our food, environmental, or animal welfare standards. I will ensure that the interests of our farmers in North Devon are protected because we cannot afford to undermine what is an essential sector for North Devon.
March 2020
Nature & The Environment Bill
Selaine's response:
The Environment Bill will put the environment at the heart of all policy and hold governments to account if they fail to uphold their environmental duties. The Office for Environmental Protection, a new, world-leading independent regulator, will be established in statute to scrutinise environmental policy and law, investigate complaints and take enforcement action when necessary. This will ensure we succeed in leaving the environment in a better condition than we found it.
In the 25 Year Environment Plan, the Government committed to developing a Nature Recovery Network and, in the long term, to create or restore 500,000 hectares of wildlife-rich habitat outside the protected site series. The Bill will also require the preparation and publication of Local Nature Recovery Strategies, mapping nature-rich habitats, so that investment can be targeted where it will make the most difference.
February 2020
Race Horses
Selaine's response:
I believe that the irresponsible use of the whip is completely unacceptable. The British Horseracing Association (BHA), the governing and regulatory body for the sport, requires that whips used in horse racing must be used responsibly, for safety reasons and only to encourage the horse.
The BHA policy on the whip was drawn up in consultation with animal welfare groups, such as the RSPCA and World Horse Welfare. The latest rules include a threshold on the number of times the whip can be used before racing stewards can consider an inquiry. If the rules are broken, the jockey may be banned from racing for a certain number of days depending on the seriousness of the offence.
In addition to sanctions from the sport, using the whip indiscriminately on horses could lead to a prosecution under the 2006 Animal Welfare Act, which makes it a criminal offence to cause unnecessary suffering to any animal. I would encourage anyone with evidence that a racehorse has suffered unnecessarily from being whipped to report it to the local authority.
I therefore believe that the provisions of the 2006 Act, coupled with the BHA’s rules on the use of the whip, provide adequate protection for racehorses.
February 2020
Trophy Hunting
Selaine's response:
All animals should be treated with thought and care. Trophy hunting involves pursuing another animal in conditions which causes stress, fear and pain, with hunters killing as a form of entertainment, not for food, to control pests or to protect other species.
I cannot see a justification to defend hunters who kill an animal which has been bred in captivity for the specific purpose of being hunted for entertainment. I believe action is needed to stop this sort of exploitation. I am therefore pleased that the Government has launched a consultation on options to restrict the imports and exports of hunting trophies to the UK - including a potential ban.
This consultation, alongside a call for evidence, will allow ministers to understand the public’s views on all sides of the debate and gather expert evidence to inform any next steps. It will run until the 25th February 2020 and you can take part, should you wish, by visiting https://consult.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-management/trophy-hunting-consultation/.
February 2020
Nature and the Agriculture Bill
Selaine's response:
The decision to leave the European Union has created an historic opportunity to deliver a green Brexit, where environmental standards are not only maintained but enhanced.
The Agriculture Bill will enable a balance between food production and the environment which will safeguard our countryside and farming communities for the future. The Bill sets out how farmers and land managers in England will be paid public money for “public goods,” rewarding them for the work they do to safeguard our environment. This will help our country meet crucial goals on climate change and protecting nature and biodiversity.
In addition, the Environment Bill will place environmental ambition and accountability at the heart of Government. Legislative measures will be introduced to address the biggest environmental priorities of our age, including nature recovery, ensuring we can deliver on the commitment to leave the natural world in a better condition than we found it. A new framework for Local Nature Recovery Strategies will be legislated for in the Environment Bill, to help support the Nature Recovery Network and better direct investment in the environment and green infrastructure – creating places that are richer in wildlife and provide wider benefits for local communities.
February 2020
Clear Access, Clear Waters
Selaine's response:
I am enthusiastic about promoting sport and recreation in the countryside, and understand the positive benefits outdoor activities can have. However, I am also mindful of the rights of communities and people who live or work on land adjoining water and so we must seek to maintain this delicate balance between the rights of all parties.
I therefore support continuing to use local, voluntary agreements to increase river access for walkers, swimmers and non-powered craft. The rights of other users, as well as protection for wildlife and the environment, are important considerations. These sensitive issues can best be dealt with at a local level rather than through a one size fits all approach decided in Westminster.
I share your concern about the health of our rivers and I am glad we have made good progress. More than 5,300 miles of rivers have been improved since 2010.This means our rivers are in the healthiest state for 25 years with otters, salmon, sea trout and other wildlife returning to many rivers for the first time since the industrial revolution.
As well as this, since the water industry was privatised, around £25 billion has been invested to reduce pollution from sewage, covering improvements in sewage treatment and in sewer overflows keeping our rivers clean.
January 2020
Air Quality
Selaine's response:
I am in favour of strict targets on air pollution and ours have been described by the WHO as ‘an example for the rest of the world to follow’. The Government’s Clean Air Strategy aims to cut air pollution through new primary legislation. The Strategy details how the UK will go much further than the EU in reducing particulate matter pollution. It sets out to halve the number of people living in areas with high concentrations of particulate matter and it will mean legislation to give councils more power to improve air quality and ensure that only the cleanest domestic fuels and stoves can be sold.
The Environment Bill will build on this Strategy, and highlight our drive to go further to clean up our air. The Bill will set ambitious, legally-binding targets to reduce fine particulate matter and these targets will be among the most ambitious in the world, improving the quality of millions of people’s live.
January 2020
Finn's Law Part 2
Selaine's response:
Thank you very much for contacting me about the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill.
I completely agree that we need to have the right legislation in place to ensure that those who are cruel to animals or who neglect their welfare are properly punished. The UK is a country of animal lovers and MPs must reflect that when making decisions. I am therefore happy to say that the Government will introduce legislation to increase the maximum sentence for animal cruelty to five years imprisonment.
This is on top of a number of other animal welfare measures such the ban on the use of animals in travelling circuses, passed last year. Moving forward, consultations are being set up to look at banning long journeys for animals being transported for slaughter and further restrictions on the trade in hunting trophies.
January 2020
Friends of the Earth
Selaine’s response:
I can absolutely assure you that climate change is at the forefront of my decision making and I am in favour of rapid cuts to carbon emissions. I want to continue the progress we have made thus far (a 25% reduction in carbon emissions over the past nine years) and redouble our efforts so that the planet is in a fit state to be passed on to future generations.
Putting the net-zero by 2050 target into law marked an important moment and showed just how far we have come as a country in forging a strong consensus behind climate action. I am concerned, however, that 2050 might be too late and I will be liaising with Ministers to explore whether we could achieve net-zero sooner.
January 2020
Generation Sea
Selaine’s response:
I believe the best approach to stemming the flow of plastic is by taking action on land. The UK’s world-leading ban on microbeads will help stop potentially billions of particles from entering our seas every year, and over 15.6 billion fewer bags have been issued since the introduction of the plastic bag charge in 2015. I am also pleased that following an open consultation a ban on the supply of plastic straws, excluding those needed for medical purposes, plus drinks stirrers and cotton buds will come into force next April.
Since water privatisation, around £25 billion has been invested to reduce pollution from sewage, covering improvements in sewage treatment and overflows. In England, between 2015 and 2020, water companies are investing over £3 billion to improve their sewerage infrastructure. It is also encouraging to see tough enforcement action when things go wrong, as with the unprecedented fine of almost £20 million levied against Thames Water in March 2017 in response to six cases of avoidable sewage pollution.
I am pleased that 41 new Marine Conservation Zones have been created. The UK now has 355 Marine Protected Areas of different types, spanning 220,000 square km. No new activities deemed damaging may take place in these areas and existing harmful activities will be minimised or stopped to allow important habitats to recover.
A review has now been launched into whether and how Highly Protected Marine Areas, the strongest form of marine protection, could be introduced in English seas. This will help inform the Government’s work to expand and strengthen the UK’s Blue Belt to create richer habitats for marine life.
January 2020
