Three UK MPs have introduced legislative proposals aimed at improving animal welfare, focusing on issues such as the import of fur, the use of fireworks, and the smuggling of pets.
These proposals have been put forward as Private Members’ Bills (PMBs) following a parliamentary ballot, which allows backbench MPs to bring legislative issues to the floor for debate. The MPs leading these proposals are Ruth Jones (Lab, Newport West and Islwyn), Sarah Owen (Lab, Luton North), and Danny Chambers (Lib Dem, Winchester).
Sarah Owen MP has introduced a proposal focused on reforming fireworks regulations. The aim is to address the impact of fireworks on pets, wildlife, and farm animals, which can suffer from the loud noises and unpredictability of firework displays. Owen’s bill suggests introducing firework control zones, limiting the sale of high-noise fireworks, and restricting when fireworks can be sold to ensure their use is more controlled.
“Change to firework law is long-overdue,” said Owen. “Extremely loud rockets and firework fountains can currently be purchased year-round, causing disruption to lives and distress to pets. It’s time to tighten the rules.”
Owen added that her constituents have repeatedly expressed concerns about the constant noise from fireworks, which also affects people with conditions such as PTSD. She hopes that by working with animal welfare charities and veterans’ organisations, this bill will gain support across Parliament.
Ruth Jones MP is focusing on a bill that would ban the import of fur products into the UK. The UK banned fur farming more than 20 years ago, but Jones argues that the country still allows the import of fur, which undermines the original ban.
Danny Chambers MP is focusing on the issue of pet smuggling, which has seen a rise in illegal imports of puppies, kittens, and ferrets. His proposal aims to prevent commercial imports of young animals and close loopholes that allow mutilated pets, such as those with cropped ears or docked tails, to be imported into the UK.
Although these practices have long been banned in the UK, animals that have been subject to such procedures abroad can still be brought into the country, creating a market for illegal breeders and contributing to animal suffering.
David Bowles, Head of Public Affairs at the RSPCA, praised the MPs for prioritising animal welfare. “It’s great to see Members of the new Parliament using this opportunity to push proposals that could make a real difference for animals,” he said. “We already know 84% of people believe animal welfare should be protected by governments through legislation.”
