Question reference: S6W-03018
- Asked by: Colin Smyth, MSP for South Scotland, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 16 September 2021
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Current status: Answered by Mairi Gougeon on 24 September 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what its position is on banning greyhound racing.
Answer
The Scottish Government considers that the provisions of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006, as amended, are sufficient to ensure that action can be taken if the welfare of greyhounds, whether still racing or retired, is not being met. The provisions of Part 2 of the Act apply to all people responsible for animals, including breeders, trainers and owners of racing greyhounds.
As a result of the Scottish Government’s introduction of the Animals and Wildlife (Penalties, Protections and Powers) (Scotland) Act 2020 a person convicted of the offence of causing an animal unnecessary suffering can currently be sentenced for a period of up to 5 years in prison and/or an unlimited fine.