Following the Stage One debate and vote on Mark Ruskell MSP’s Greyhound Racing (Offences) (Scotland) Bill, Mark Bird, CEO of the Greyhound Board of Great Britain, said:

“The Greens and SNP seem determined to push through this meaningless legislation in spite of cross-party criticism. This Bill is confined to banning something that does not currently take place and will have no tangible impact on the welfare of greyhounds in Scotland.

“As Members across the political spectrum have rightly argued at Stage One, there is a fundamental lack of evidence to support this Bill, and a robust regulatory framework is the only way to protect the welfare of all greyhounds throughout each stage of their lives. 

“In the final months before an election Scottish voters will no doubt be stunned that this is what is being prioritised.”