Parliament Workbench
Data: Motions & questions to 19 Nov 2026

Written Question · S6W-03018 · Session 6

What its position is on banning greyhound racing.

Answered Asked by Colin Smyth Lab Lodged 13 Sep 2021

The question

To ask the Scottish Government what its position is on banning greyhound racing.

The answer

Answered by Mairi Gougeon on 24 Sep 2021 · 11 days after it was lodged, on time

The Scottish Government considers that the provisions of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006, as amended, are sufficient to ensure that action can be taken if the welfare of greyhounds, whether still racing or retired, is not being met. The provisions of Part 2 of the Act apply to all people responsible for animals, including breeders, trainers and owners of racing greyhounds.
As a result of the Scottish Government’s introduction of the Animals and Wildlife (Penalties, Protections and Powers) (Scotland) Act 2020 a person convicted of the offence of causing an animal unnecessary suffering can currently be sentenced for a period of up to 5 years in prison and/or an unlimited fine.

In the Official Report

No contribution in the Official Report cites S6W-03018 by reference.