WQ82309 (e) Tabled on 19/03/2021

What discussions has the Minister had with animal welfare organisations about the number of puppy and kitten breeders who may be regulated under The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Wales) Regulations 2021?

Answered by Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs | Answered on 26/03/2021

Officials have been in regular contact with third sector organisations via the Animal Welfare Network Wales and the Companion Animal Welfare Group Wales and are members of the Pet Advertising Advisory Group which provides advice to England, Scotland and Wales on the on line selling sector.

It will be difficult to project the number of new licenses as the Statutory Guidance will be drafted to include a "business  test" to ascertain whether a breeder/seller will require a license.

Local Authorities will receive training in the enforcement of the legislation and the Statutory Guidance for enforcement officers will provide Local Authority officers the flexibility they require to enforce a licensing regime which steers away from a ‘one size fits all’ approach.