A Welsh Labour politician has proposed that individuals be required to complete a training course before they are permitted to own a rabbit. Mike Hedges, a member of the Senedd for Gwyr Abertawe, stated that such a measure would ensure potential owners understand the needs of the animals.
During a session of First Minister's Questions, Hedges also advocated for the microchipping of cats and a ban on tethering horses. He argued that the way society treats animals reflects its values, emphasizing that many animals are sentient beings capable of experiencing feelings like pleasure and distress.
Hedges' proposed legislation also includes provisions for banning the tethering of horses, prohibiting individuals from keeping primates, ending the cage breeding of game birds, and banning Larsen traps. The proposal for mandatory rabbit owner training was presented as part of a broader animal welfare initiative.
The First Minister acknowledged Wales as a "nation of animal lovers" but did not directly address the specific proposal for rabbit ownership training. He indicated that the Welsh Government is open to considering legislative measures to set high standards for animal treatment and would monitor the situation to determine if further action is necessary.
Hedges was among nine Welsh Labour members to secure a seat following the party's performance in recent local elections.