Overview

This bill establishes an Animal Sentience Committee to advise the UK government on the impact of its policies on animal welfare. The committee will review government policies and report on whether they adequately consider the potential negative effects on animals, treating them as sentient beings.

Description

The Animal Sentience Committee

The bill creates an Animal Sentience Committee appointed by the Secretary of State. This committee will review the effect of UK government policies on animal welfare, considering animals as sentient beings. The committee can produce reports on whether policies give sufficient consideration to animal welfare and make recommendations to the government. These reports must be publicly available. The bill defines "animal" to include vertebrates (except humans), cephalopods, and decapod crustaceans, with the possibility of expanding this definition to include other invertebrates through future regulations. The government must respond to the Committee's reports to Parliament within three months.

Devolved Matters

The committee's remit excludes policies within the devolved competence of the Scottish Parliament, Senedd Cymru, and the Northern Ireland Assembly, unless explicitly agreed upon.

Information and Records

The bill adds the Animal Sentience Committee to the list of public authorities under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and the Public Records Act 1958, ensuring transparency and accessibility to its records and activities.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify direct government spending figures. The cost will depend on the size and operation of the committee, including staff salaries and operational expenses. An increase in government spending related to implementing the committee's recommendations is possible.

Groups Affected

• Animals: The bill aims to improve the welfare of animals by ensuring government policies consider their sentience.
• Animal Welfare Organisations: These groups will likely be involved in providing input to the committee and monitoring its activities.
• Government Departments: Government departments will need to consider the Committee’s advice when formulating and implementing policies.
• Parliament: Parliament will receive the committee's reports and the government's responses.

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