Animal Welfare Bill

I am not quite sure what point the hon. Gentleman is making, but of course I accept that there is a difference. Several Members raised the issue of tethering. Under the Bill, there is no intention to ban tethering, which can be an acceptable short-term method of animal control, but we expect to introduce a code on tethering, outlining best practice to ensure good welfare, in the first tranche of regulations in 2006 or 2007. The Bill has been the result of long gestation—of two elephants, as my hon. Friend the Member for Llanelli (Nia Griffith) pointed out—and careful deliberation. The Government have listened carefully to all those with an interest in animal welfare and we believe that the Bill we have produced is in tune with the views of the public. I am pleased that it appears to enjoy strong cross-party support in the House. It places a new responsibility on animal keepers and owners, without intruding too much into the lives of the vast majority who already provide good care for their pets.