Sir Gavin Williamson has called on the Government to move more quickly on its animal welfare promises, warning that delays could leave animals suffering unnecessarily.
The MP for Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge spoke out after attending an event hosted by the RSPCA, where parliamentarians were briefed on the progress of the Animal Welfare Strategy for England.
Concerns over pace of change
In December 2025, the Government published its Animal Welfare Strategy for England, setting out proposals to regulate animal sanctuaries, clamp down on irresponsible dog breeding and end the use of cages for many farmed animals.
However, concerns have since been raised that the measures are not being implemented quickly enough.
Sir Gavin said:
“Like many of residents in Staffordshire, I care deeply about animal welfare and it is vital we use all the legislative tools at our disposal to ensure standards remain high and improvements are made where necessary.
“Charities such as the RSPCA undertake amazing work across the country to protect animals and raise awareness of animal welfare standards that we should all adhere to.
“I am urging the Government to prioritise animal welfare legislation so animals do not suffer any further due to gaps in policy.”
Call for clear timelines
Harriet Main, Public Affairs Manager at the RSPCA, also addressed the event and called for greater clarity from Government.
She said:
“It was brilliant to welcome Sir Gavin and other Parliamentarians to this special event and highlight how we can make many of the welcome ideas in the Animal Welfare Strategy for England into law.
“It is so important that the UK Government builds on their commitments by publishing clear timelines for delivery; and we also believe an annual debate in Parliament would help review progress and keep the public informed.
“Laws are also only valuable if they can be properly enforced – so we are also calling on the UK Government and MP’s to work with local Government to ensure they have the tools they need on the front line.”
Sir Gavin represents a constituency that includes Stone and surrounding villages. Animal welfare has long been a topic that draws strong views locally, particularly among pet owners and rural communities.
The Government has not yet confirmed a detailed timetable for bringing the proposals into law.
