THE MP for West Dorset reiterated his call for harsher punishment for animal cruelty offences.

Chris Loder spoke during a House of Commons committee debate arguing for the maximum sentence for animal cruelty to be increased tenfold.

The debate saw the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill scrutinised in detail as it moves through Parliament before becoming law.

The bill, which Mr Loder brought as a Private Members’ Bill in 2020, makes provision for the maximum penalty for certain offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 to be increased from six months to up to five years.

Mr Loder said: “We are one step closer to increasing the maximum custodial penalty for those who abuse animals. The UK has some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world, but in terms of penalties we are currently amongst the lowest. I am so pleased that this bill is making progress, sending a clear signal to potential offenders that there is no place for animal cruelty in this country.”

Mr Loder also made the point that whilst the bill is about animals, it is worth noting the strong link between acts of violence against animals and acts of violence against people. He said tackling animal abuse is also an important factor in tackling domestic abuse.

The amendment was first put to Parliament in July 2016 by Redcar MP, Anna Turley, following an incident that saw two young men filming themselves throwing a bulldog down a flight of stairs.

A public consultation in 2017 showed that more than 70% of people supported the proposals for tougher prison sentences.

Mr Loder was inspired to bring forward the bill by his own dog - Poppy. He rescued the springer spaniel after she had been abandoned at the roadside several years ago, having clearly been mistreated.