动物福利与农业法

Duty of Care — The Animal Welfare Act 2006 imposes a duty on any person responsible for an animal to ensure its welfare needs are met (s.9): a suitable environment, diet, ability to exhibit normal behaviour, housing with or apart from other animals, and protection from pain, suffering, injury, and disease.

Unnecessary Suffering — It is an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to a protected animal (s.4 AWA 2006). Maximum penalty: 5 years' imprisonment (increased by the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act 2021).

Wildlife Crime — The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 protects wild birds, wild animals, and plants. Offences include killing or taking listed species, destroying habitats, and trading in endangered species (CITES).

Livestock Regulation — Animal health legislation governs disease control (Animal Health Act 1981), movement of livestock, identification and traceability, and slaughter and meat hygiene.

Post-Brexit Farm Subsidies — The Agriculture Act 2020 replaces the EU Common Agricultural Policy with Environmental Land Management schemes. Payments are transitioning from area-based subsidies to 'public money for public goods' (environmental improvements).

Hunting — The Hunting Act 2004 prohibits hunting wild mammals with dogs in England and Wales, with limited exemptions.

Dangerous Dogs — The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 prohibits certain breeds and creates offences for dogs dangerously out of control.

Animal Testing — The Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 regulates the use of animals in scientific research, requiring licences and compliance with the 3Rs (replacement, reduction, refinement).