RSPCA prosecution powers to be reviewed by MPs

Following news today (22 September) that the Government's environment select committee will investigate the prosecution powers of the RSPCA, the Countryside Alliance has made the following comment.

Chief executive Tim Bonner said: "We are very supportive of the good work the RSPCA does with abused and neglected animals, however we believe the problems faced by the charity come back to it not properly separating its campaigning, investigation and prosecution activities.

"Our legal system has long recognised the problems inherent in one body having multiple roles. The RSPCA should continue to investigate cases of cruelty to animals but should not prosecute them in the courts when the CPS and local authorities already have a statutory duty to do so.

"We will respond to any consultation exercise carried out on this issue and look forward to the findings of the investigation."