Animals Act 1971 (Amendment) Bill

A Bill to amend the Animals Act 1971 to limit strict liability for damage done by animals

What this bill does

The Bill aims to reduce the number of instances under the Animals Act 1971 when, following an accident involving certain types of animal, an owner of the animal is strictly liable (that is, liable to pay compensation regardless of whether there is any fault on the owner’s part). The Bill was drafted in conjunction with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

7 February 2011

In Plain English

AI-generated

This Bill would change the Animals Act 1971 to limit when an animal’s owner must pay compensation after an accident. It aims to reduce cases where liability is automatic (strict liability) regardless of fault by narrowing the circumstances that trigger that liability.

Key Points

Amends the Animals Act 1971 to narrow strict liability for damage caused by certain animals.
Aims to reduce automatic compensation obligations following accidents where the owner may not be at fault.
Drafted in conjunction with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).
Currently at the second reading in the House of Commons, the first stage of the legislative process in the Commons.

Progress

The Bill is at the second reading in the House of Commons and has not yet progressed to committee or the Lords.

Who is affected?

Owners of animals (pets, livestock and other keeping animals)Members of the public who could be injured or have property damaged by animalsBusinesses involved in animal care and management (e.g., kennels, farms, veterinary practices)

Generated 21 February 2026