The Scottish government has given its backing to a ban on greyhound racing in Scotland. Scottish Green MSP Mark Ruskell has already received cross party support for his member’s bill.
The Scottish government previously said it was not “convinced” a ban was required but would consider a licensing scheme, with owners and trainers penalized if they breached animal welfare standards.
However, in a letter to Ruskell, Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie said the government supported the general principles of his bill.
Ruskell said: “I am delighted that the government is backing my bill. This is a big step towards ensuring that we protect our greyhounds and halt this cruel gambling-led sport for good.”