Written question WQ84685
- Asked by
- Luke FletcherPlaid
- To be answered by
- Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales, and Trefnydd
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 7 days
Question
Will the Minister provide a timeline on the Welsh Government's commitment to extend compulsory microchipping in pets to include owned cats?
Answer
Answered by Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales, and Trefnydd
Our Animal Welfare Plan for Wales (AWPW) includes a commitment to consider extending compulsory microchipping to include kittens and cats in Wales. Proposals in this area will draw upon research published in 2021 which was joint-funded with other GB administrations. Following completion of our analysis of the research, we will consult on proposed amendments to the current microchipping regulations for dogs and consider new measures for kittens and cats. Any changes will be subject to the full public consultation process.
We cannot commit to a specific timeline at this point but the AWPW covers the period from 2021-26.
We are aware England are considering their approach on this policy issue and, similar to previous policy development, my officials will endeavour to align our policy wherever possible to ensure enforcement requirements are not compromised, especially, on the borders between England and Wales.