I appreciate your concerns with reference to health and social care workers receiving the Covid-19 vaccine, and I know that the Government is encouraging frontline workers in health and social care to be vaccinated.
While there has been a rise in coronavirus cases recently because of the spread of the Delta variant, hospitalisations and deaths remain low, and these are the most important figures.
I agree we should do all we can to protect the welfare of our marine life, especially the whale, and from my conversations with Ministerial colleagues I know they feel the same.
As you may be aware, the Electoral Commission has sought in recent years to bring criminal offences before the courts. This is not a role that has ever been agreed by the Government or by Parliament.
The hedgehog is an extraordinary creature with a long and celebrated history in this country. I am pleased that these creatures are currently protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 from being killed using prohibited methods such as crossbows, traps and snares.
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) concluded that only those with more severe forms of asthma are at clinically high risk from coronavirus.
The UK has a long history of leading the way on animal welfare. I am pleased that now we have left the EU, the Government is committed to improving our already world-leading standards by delivering a series of ambitious reforms, outlined in the Action Plan for Animal Welfare.
I understand your concerns on this issue and I know these is a lot of interest in the welfare of decapod crustaceans, such as the crab and lobster, and cephalopod molluscs, such as the squid and octopus.
I understand that many people have strongly held views about driven grouse shooting. I too want to see a vibrant, working countryside enhanced by a diverse environment.
Thank you for contacting me about animal sentience.
First and foremost, I believe animals are sentient beings who can feel pain and suffering, and I would like to reassure you that strong action is being taken to reduce their risk of harm.
