Campaign Responses

I understand your concern regarding this important issue. This is a complex area and I hope I can provide some further information in this response to help explain the current situation. I know that the Government takes the welfare of people in Home Office care extremely seriously and is fulfilling statutory duties to ensure decent, safe and humane conditions. 

Pets make excellent companions and are an important part of the lives of millions of people across the country. 

I am proud that the UK has consistently led the way on animal welfare, and it is right that we cement our status as a global leader by continuing to raise the bar.

The Government maintains that the prohibition on the four types of fighting dogs under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 should remain in place. 

As I am sure you are aware, this extra support was announced by the Chancellor as a temporary measure in March 2020 to support those likely to be facing the most financial disruption as a result of the public health emergency.

I welcome the temporary cut to VAT from 20 per cent to 5 per cent for all food and non-alcoholic drinks, which has been extended until the end of September and will be followed by a 12.5 per cent rate until 31 March 2022. This will continue to support restaurants, pubs, bars, cafés and similar premises across the UK.

I share your concern about the deeply distressing scenes witnessed at Kabul International Airport, and I commend the tremendous efforts of our Armed Forces, and all involved in such challenging circumstances.

I share your concern about the protection and health of British waters and I am fully aware of the impact that super trawlers have on marine life. Our waters are a precious natural resource and they must be managed carefully. The future of the communities that earn their livelihoods from the sea and the biodiversity of the ocean depends on a balanced and considered approach to fisheries management. 

I know this can be a very painful and debilitating condition. I recognise that living with a long-term condition, such as arthritis, has a significant impact upon a person’s wellbeing and I would like to thank the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society and Versus Arthritis for raising awareness of this issue.