Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Bill: Stage 1

Part of the debate – in the Scottish Parliament at 9:27 am on 23 February 2006.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Richard Lochhead Richard Lochhead Scottish National Party 9:27, 23 February 2006

I apologise. I am in my last minute and cannot take any interventions.

Internet trading is another issue that was brought to the attention of the committee, and we welcome the fact that the minister has acknowledged our concerns about that as well.

The trading and advertising for sale of pets on the internet will be addressed in Scotland.

In conclusion, I reiterate the SNP's support for many of the measures in the bill. There are many vigorous debates ahead at stage 2 and stage 3. In particular, the unfettered ability of the minister to impose orders for mass slaughter without there being any safeguards in the bill will be a key battle in the stages ahead. Gandhi said that

"the greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."

If we pass the bill after it has been appropriately amended, the Parliament will have played a great role in ensuring that moral progress is made in Scotland in terms of animal welfare.