Standing up for Animals 

We are a nation of animal lovers, and the protection of animals goes beyond party politics. Since my election, I have made improving animal welfare a priority.

I have challenged Ministers where protections risk being diluted and pushed consistently for stronger safeguards in law and in enforcement. I was proud to secure a Westminster Hall debate on improving animal welfare standards for farm animals, which drew broad support from across Parliament and highlighted the strength of feeling on this issue.

The Animal Welfare Strategy sits at the heart of this work. It is designed to provide a clear national framework for raising standards across the country. The strategy sets the direction for how we improve protections in the years ahead.

There is much within the strategy that I welcome. However, it must be underpinned by clear timetables and firm commitments if it is to deliver meaningful change. I am pressing the Government to set a timeframe for phasing out crates and cages, and to provide proper support for farmers as they transition to higher welfare systems. At the same time, we must ensure that imports do not undercut British producers by failing to meet our standards, a point I have raised in Parliament to defend both animal welfare and fair competition.