Bob Seely, the Isle of Wight’s MP, has met with Minister Of State for Food, Farming and Fisheries Mark Spencer to discuss the Savannah cat trade.
Mr Seely has submitted amendments to the Government’s Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill, in collaboration with the Island-based Wildheart Trust, to outlaw the breeding and import of Savannah cats (a hybrid breed of wild and domestic cat).
Following this meeting, Mr Seely has said:
“Mark and I talked through the importance of the amendment. He understands that breeding domestic and non-domestic cats is a cruel practice and that Savannahs, beautiful as they are, are unsuitable household pets.
“Savannahs are, essentially, wild animals. A domestic lifestyle does not suit them. Savannahs are often abandoned by their owners when they realise this. Regardless, social media has helped to grow the Savannah trade. I want to make sure cats have the right protections in place and this amendment will help to achieve that.”
As previously reported by Island Echo, the Island’s MP recently wrote to ministers and the leaders of parliament’s animal welfare groups, asking them to support his amendments, which has already gained cross-party support; 13 MPs from 4 parties have signed both amendments.
The Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill is currently awaiting its Report Stage in the House of Commons.
Once again, Seely has his finger on the pulse.
I would agree that a wild Savannah cat would not make a good pet, but I understand a savannah crossed with a domestic cat makes a very good pet and I believe sex is painful for all cats.
There is not such thing as a wild Savannah cat. A Savannah cat is a cross between a serval and a domestic cat.
Is this for the good of island residents, hell no, bungling bob, give it up. Start looking at things a little more meaninful and relevant to us, the people you’re supposed to be working for.
Hardly going to win an election with this Bob. Maybe you should try to get all previously wild but now domesticated animals banned, such as dogs, cats, cows, sheep, etc.
Has he nothing more important to do ?. Hospital closing needed wards, failing schools, cost of living forcing people to go hungry,poor highway’s and increasing crime.
You have to ask yourself, if he is so passionate about this topic, where was he when this government very recently overturned a 25 year ban on cosmetic testing on animals?
Shyster Bob, what’s in this for YOU??
Come on pop up Bob Show some concern about the Island Dentist shortage, food bank, crime, lack of Police, poor road maintenance.. rip off ferry fares .. take your pick !! Plenty of photo opportunities for you .. Do some for the Island residents . You have had long enough
Traditionally, politicians throw a “dead cat” on the table to distract people from real issues.
Seely is using a live one.
Truly innovative thinking from our MP.
Dose anyone no where I can get one of these cats from? They look well cool, I had never heard or seen one before BBQ BOB started whinging about them.
Seely is a waste of money fcuking cats what about JOBS TRANSPORT FERRIES HOUSING SACK HIM NOW USLESS TAWT
Dear Bob – What ever happened to the levelling up money for the Isle of Wight? Think that is more important than mixed breeding of cats. Although I agree it is going to take a long time to get the serval characteristics of killing out of the doctored breed so it is not something I would ever consider bringing into my living environment.