To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many working parties he has set up to discuss aspects of regulations associated with progress of the Animal Welfare Bill; and who has been invited to sit on each working party. (96074)

Since 2004, the Department has set up 13 working groups on the Animal Welfare Bill and accompanying regulations. Membership has consisted of the main animal welfare organisations, the relevant industry and hobby groups, local authorities and DEFRA officials. Some groups have also included representatives from other Government departments, the Devolved Administrations, the police and Equity.