The Queen confirmed the UK government’s plan to ban trophy hunting imports as she addressed members of the parliament last week.

Speaking at the State Opening of Parliament, which marks the formal start of the parliamentary year, the Queen laid out the current government’s focus and agenda.

While outlining the proposed policies and laws, she said: “For the first time, environmental principles will be enshrined in law,” which includes measures that will “promote and protect the welfare of animals, including banning imports from trophy hunting”.

Her announcement was applauded by animal advocates worldwide with many going on record to praise the Queen and the government for their stand against trophy hunting imports

‘Compassionate decision’.

Katie Cleary, Founder of World Animal News and Peace 4 Animals said: “We are so proud that Queen Elizabeth has made the compassionate decision to promote the value of the lives of such threatened and endangered species worldwide and stop the import of wild animal ‘trophies’ for so-called ‘sport.’

“Trophy hunting is becoming socially unacceptable and we look forward to it becoming a thing of the past.”

Eduardo Gonçalves, founder of the Campaign to Ban Trophy Hunting said: “An overwhelming majority” of UK citizens are in favor of a ban.

“Trophy hunting is cruel, immoral, and is having a devastating impact on some of the world’s most vulnerable wildlife.

 “British trophy hunters are among the worst in the world for shooting elephants and lions bred in captivity.”

Earlier, the UK Labour Party proposed an Animal Welfare Manifesto that listed 50 points to improve the lives of animals in Britain.

It included sanctions on animal testing and mandates on trophy hunting imports, the sale of snares and glue traps, commercial whaling, and electric pulse fishing.

Speaking about the Labour Party’s efforts, Sue Hayman, the shadow environment secretary said: “From bringing forward the landmark Hunting Act to protecting the treatment of domestic animals under the Animal Welfare Act, Labour has always placed the welfare of animals high on the policy agenda.

“Labour will ensure that we have a comprehensive legislative agenda in place to make sure that the UK has animal rights protections equal to or better than anywhere in the world.”

• Read: British trophy hunters pay £3,000 to kill 100 endangered puffins at a time

What else can governments do to stop animal cruelty? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Oli Gross

Oli’s career and personal ethical values both help shape his reporting of the diverse world of veganism. His background is in local newspaper and magazine journalism, and his work has included reporting court cases, celebrity interviews, business analysis, food and drink features and government legislation.

See author's posts