Overview

The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill aims to increase the maximum penalties for animal welfare offences in England and Wales. It changes the mode of trial and increases the potential prison sentence for those convicted under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Description

This bill amends Section 32 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Currently, the maximum penalty for certain offences under this Act is a six-month prison sentence or a fine upon summary conviction. This bill increases the maximum penalty for these offences.

Key Changes:

• Increased Penalties: The maximum prison sentence is increased from six months to 12 months on summary conviction and to a maximum of 5 years on indictment (a more serious trial).
• Offences Covered: The changes apply to offences under sections 4, 5, 6(1) and (2), 7 and 8 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which cover various acts of cruelty and neglect.
• Retroactive Clause: A clause clarifies that the increased penalties do not apply to offences committed before the act comes into force.
• Geographic Scope: The bill applies only to England and Wales.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to significantly increase or decrease government spending. The primary impact will be on the justice system, potentially leading to increased court costs associated with more serious cases. No specific figures were provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Individuals who commit animal welfare offences: They will face significantly harsher penalties if convicted.
• Animal welfare organizations: They may see an increase in successful prosecutions and potentially a decrease in animal cruelty.
• The courts and legal system: They will need to process a potentially increased number of cases involving higher penalties.
• Law enforcement agencies: Increased sentencing powers may encourage more thorough investigations and prosecutions.

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