The current sentencing guidelines for animal cruelty offences are too lenient and not currently in line with those in other countries. We need to be clear that animal cruelty will not be tolerated by raising the maximum sentence for these appalling crimes.

It is important that we send a clear message and enforce proper deterrents so that people will consider carefully the potential consequences before engaging in such cruel behaviour.

I recently asked a Parliamentary Question to the Environment Minister asking whether he had any plans to increase the maximum sentence for animal cruelty offences. He told me that the sentences were under constant review to ensure that they are appropriate. But I continue to believe that the Government should act to increase those sentences in line with other countries.