Press Releases

Government to impose heavier penalty for animal cruelty offences

The Government today (June 23) gazettes the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Amendment) Bill 2006 seeking to impose a heavier penalty on animal cruelty offences to serve a stronger deterrent effect.

Under the amendment bill, the maximum penalty for animal cruelty acts, such as beating, kicking and torture, would be increased from the current penalty of a fine of $5,000 and an imprisonment of six months to a fine of $100,000 and an imprisonment of 12 months.

"A heavier penalty is necessary in view of the recent animal cruelty cases and public concerns about animal abuse. The proposed penalty level is in line with other developed countries and can reflect the seriousness of animal cruelty in the present day context," a spokesman for the Health, Welfare and Food Bureau said.

The Bill will be introduced into the Legislative Council on July 5, 2006.



Ends/Friday, June 23, 2006
Issued at HKT 11:22

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