Selaine Saxby, MP for North Devon, hosted a drop in event at Westminster attended by the RSPCA, Battersea Dogs & Cats, Cats Protection, Dogs Trust and Four Paws UK, to promote support for the upcoming Puppy and Kitten Smuggling Bill.
Representatives of the charities were welcomed by Selaine Saxby MP into Westminster to discuss, and show support for, the upcoming Second Reading of the Puppy Smuggling Bill on the 15th of March. The Bill, once originally part of the Kept Animals Bill, will ban the cruel smuggling of dogs, cats, and ferrets into Great Britain from overseas, and will put restrictions on the importation of both young, sick puppies and kittens, and heavily pregnant dogs and cats.
The drop in event was attended by MPs from all parties keen to show their support ahead of the Second Reading.
Selaine Saxby, MP for North Devon said:
“It was great to see so much support from both charities and fellow MPs. I would like to thank those who attended, particularly the charities whose enduring input and support has driven recognition for the importance of this Bill.
“It is exciting to reflect upon the progression of the Bill so far. As a dog owner myself, I am dedicated to safeguarding the welfare of our household pets and therefore, to see it garner such widespread support, regardless of political disposition, is incredibly encouraging.
“Although the contents of the Bill or the Government’s formal position cannot be disclosed until after the Second Reading, I will continue to do everything I can to ensure this legislation becomes a reality on our statute books and very much look forward to the 15th of March.”