Memorandum submitted by the Zebra Finch
Society
I am the Vice-Chairman of the Zebra Finch Society.
It is accepted that Zebra Finches are a domesticated variety of
small finches, originally from Australia. As Australia banned
the export of all wild birds in 1952 our current birds are many
generations away from their wild ancestors.
At a recent meeting of the management committee
of the Zebra Finch Society I was appointed to read the Draft Bill
and to make comments and suggestions, as I considered advisable.
We thank you for the opportunity to comment
on the Draft of the Animal Welfare Bill and hope that the following
will be taken into consideration.
1. Clause 8, Paragraphs (1) to (4).
We would appreciate the opportunity to take
part in the drafting of the Codes, which refer to Bird keeping
in general and to Finches in particular. Also to make representations
regarding any proposed "Code of Practice" regarding
Bird Keeping.
2. Clause 12 Paragraph (4).
The owner should not incur cost if the actions
of the Prosecutors, Inspectors or Police are proved to be unjustified
or the case is not proceeded with.
3. Clause 16 Paragraph (1).
The Veterinary surgeon should be independent
of the prosecutors, and not an employee or member of the RSPCA.
4. Clause 17 Paragraph (8).
Under this clause it is possible that the "Inspectors"
could obtain permission to kill animals or birds and then not
continue with the action. With some organisations this may become
the usual procedure
5. Although we believe that much of this
bill is acceptable, giving the force of law to ensuring that our
birds are well treated and looked after. This Draft bill through
its proposals for Codes of Practice, Regulatory provision and
Enforcement procedures. Could allow too much power to pass into
the hands of organisations that oppose most or many forms of animal
and bird keeping, and the well tried and tested methods of care
developed through many years and generations of keepers. The bill
offers little or no protection to the rights and interests of
those who choose to engage in a popular hobby with a long established
body of knowledge and practice. I believe that if the RSPCA is
appointed as inspectors and prosecutors, this could be shown to
be in contravention of Article 1 of the European Convention on
Human Rights.
6. The Zebra Finch Society have, for a number
of years produced a "Beginner's Pack" with a large number
of pages of advice on the care of Zebra Finches. This pack is
sent to every new member.
23 August 2004
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