A new Prime Minister brings a renewed opportunity for animals

The appointment of Prime Minister Andy Burnham marks a new chapter for the UK, and a renewed opportunity to deliver meaningful progress for animals. 

The Government has already set out an ambitious Animal Welfare Strategy, building on Labour's manifesto commitments to improve the lives of farmed, companion and wild animals. The strategy includes commitments to phase out cruel farming practices, ban trail hunting and snare traps, tackle puppy farming, and strengthen protections for animals across England. 

Encouragingly, the Prime Minister has recently reaffirmed his support for this agenda, describing animal welfare as "a moral cause" and stating that he "fully support[s] the animal welfare strategy and want[s] to see it implemented." He also recognised the wider benefits of protecting animals, from improving public health to supporting responsible businesses and farming. 

At FOUR PAWS UK, we welcome this clear commitment. Now is the time to turn ambition into action. 

We look forward to working constructively with the Prime Minister, Ministers and parliamentarians to ensure these commitments are delivered. From ending the cage age for farmed animals and improving animal welfare labelling, to tackling the illegal puppy trade, strengthening protections for wildlife and ensuring animals are recognised within wider food, trade and environmental policy, there is a significant opportunity to make the UK a global leader in animal welfare. 

The public consistently shows strong support for better protections for animals, and we stand ready to work with Government, businesses and civil society to help turn that support into lasting change. 

The coming months will be crucial. FOUR PAWS UK will continue to champion evidence-based policy, hold decision-makers to account, and collaborate wherever possible to create a future where every animal is treated with compassion and respect.