Recommendation 4

HM Government · verbatim extract Accepted in Part

The maximum penalty for illegally importing a puppy is 12 months imprisonment or an unlimited fine. In August 2021, the Government launched an 8-week consultation on proposed restrictions to the commercial and non-commercial movement of pets into Great Britain. We sought views on the existing maximum penalty and whether this should be increased. Under the Welfare of Animals (Kept Animals) Bill the Government may set a maximum penalty of 5 years imprisonment for illegally importing a pet, or an unlimited fine. In principle, any new penalties could apply to new criminal offences introduced under the Bill as well as any existing criminal offences which relate to the import of pets. We are analysing the responses to the consultation and will publish a summary in due course. The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has appointed two local authority Trading Standards Officers to co-ordinate the targeting and investigation of illegal imports of companion animals. These posts are currently funded until 31 March 2022. In this period the postholders will work in partnership across all local authorities and other agencies to identify and deal with individuals who regularly and intentionally commit offences. The aim is to embed new ways of working and further disrupt the illegal importation of pets.