I propose to take Questions Nos. 562, 563, 609 and 614 together.
The Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 (Section 16) prohibits the carrying out of procedures that may cause pain/suffering to animals, including certain husbandry related procedures, unless provided for under Regulations to be made under the Act. I propose to commence the Act shortly and, in this context, a number of draft regulations covering a wide range of issues are in the course of preparation to coincide with its commencement.
With regard to the specific issue on tail docking of dogs’ tails, the current legislation (the Protection of Animals Amendment Act (1965)), allows for tail docking of all dogs up to 1 month old by any person. My officials have met with a number of groups who made representations in relation to an appropriate approach to the docking of dog’s tails. The Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 specifically prohibits the docking of a dogs tail for cosmetic purposes and under no circumstances will this be allowed. I am currently considering whether tail docking should be permitted in very limited circumstances in relation to working dogs, specifically terriers, spaniels and pointers. A fundamental element involved in drafting the regulations mentioned above will be to ensure the welfare of all animals, including dogs.