UK set to beat animal abuse
2004-07-10 12:23
London - People who abuse animals in Britain face being fined thousands of extra pounds and a year in jail under tough new laws to be outlined next week, a London newspaper said on Saturday.
Inspectors working for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty of Animals (RSPCA) would be given powers to enter premises by force to rescue animals at risk of harm if the tough new welfare laws are passed in parliament at a later date, said The Times.
People found guilty of animal mistreatment could be fined up to £20 000 (about R227 000), four times the present maximum penalty, under the new laws, said the newspaper.
The proposed legislation would offer protection to creatures including insects, slugs, worms, caterpillars and butterflies.
Animal abusers face a maximum six months in prison.