Westminster debate highlights RSPCA support

29.01.13

Today’s debate in Westminster Hall, which challenged our role in bringing forward private prosecutions, only served to show how much cross-party support there is for the RSPCA from politicians.

The debate was sponsored by Simon Hart MP, the former chief executive of the Countryside Alliance which campaigns for the return of blood sports.

Upholding animal welfare

The RSPCA was formed in 1824 for the very purpose of investigating and prosecuting animal cruelty offences.

The Attorney General himself, Dominic Grieve QC MP, said the RSPCA plays a "valuable role" in protecting animal welfare.

And in the words of shadow Attorney General Emily Thornberry MP:

Can we trust the RSPCA? The truth is that the vast majority of the public think they can.

Simon Danczuk, Labour MP for Rochdale, added: "Upholding the law is not a political act", a viewpoint re-iterated by Caroline Lucas, leader of the Green party, who quoted RSPCA founder Richard Martin saying the law is worthless if not upheld.

Cheryl Gillan MP for Chesham and Amersham, who witnessed the RSPCA's investigation and prosecution expertise first hand during the multi-horse Spindles Farm case, said: "I am second to none in my admiration for the RSPCA."

The former Secretary of State said the RSPCA was well placed to uphold animal welfare through court proceedings and questioned how many other organisations would have taken the Spindles Farm case.

Investigating and prosecuting animal cruelty

We take our responsibilities as a prosecuting body extremely seriously and will continue to do so. We are as committed to our mission, to promoting compassion to all creatures and prevent cruelty, as ever.

Find out more about our prosecutions work and how we decide to prosecute.