"I support the idea of an RSPCA. I think we need an RSPCA in this country and in the world. I just think that there are certain ways that it operates at the moment that are unsuitable to its purpose." Christopher Day
These pages do not intend to criticise the
animal welfare work by many genuinely dedicated RSPCA staff that is still done at grassroots
level. What we deplore is the politicisation and the unaccountability of certain elements within the RSPCA. The Charity's considerable financial support for the Government appears to have resulted in its being given powers that many would deem inappropriate.
"...they are in the market place....they have a very strong vested interest ....The RSPCA spends 44% of its annual income of over £100,000,000 (one
hundred million pounds) on its prosecutions department."
"it would be very unfortunate if enforcement was seen to be in the hands of people who could be deemed to have an interest.." "We are entirely supportive of a proper inspection regime in relation to the Bill, but it must be a publicly accountable one.."
The Jamie Gray case at Spindles Farm 2008
A "Truly Shocking Story" according the trusting media - but could this very different version from the niece of the accused be closer to the truth? "All of his animals were checked by the vet just days before the RSPCA moved in"email January 2008 Amersham
Memorandum submitted by the Self-Help Group for Farmers, Pet Owners and Others Experiencing Difficulties with the RSPCA
Why were not the RSPCA officers ... doing duty at the farmgate of the Winslade farm when the slaughtermen forced their way in?" (See the letter in full, with others warmwell received on the same subject in 2001- 2002.)
The RSPCA
lost £16 million from their funds on the the Stock Exchange in 2002.
Dr Bob McCracken's BVA Presidential Speech
14 October 2004 ".....Nevertheless, the new Act must be enforced in a consistent and effective manner - and in a manner that allows action other than the ultimate prosecution. We must be able to have a twofold action, namely advice and encouragement followed, if necessary, by prosecution - the carrot & the stick. Government must also ensure that there will be adequate resources allocated within the Bill. Strategy without action is futile and sterile - and holds us all to ridicule! .."
Aug 18 2004 "The RSPCA is embarking on a fundraising drive with a digital TV campaign which will ask viewers to sign up to a regular donation of £3 a month by direct debit. The RSPCA appears to be building a very well financed power base.
Notes from FoBAS about the AWB. "When the public finally stand up and demand that they have rights to protect their animals they will find they are too late. .."
April 2002 -
"Like so much else that this Government seeks to do, it will further undermine the Briton's ancient right to liberty from the state's interference." Telegraph Opinion
April 23 ~ " the spider at the centre of a huge web of snoopers and informants in the countryside"
Telegraph Opinion. "... a National Wildlife Crime Intelligence Unit..... will liaise closely with HM Customs and Excise and with animal charities such as the RSPB and the RSPCA, politicised bodies which are gradually accumulating too many powers. In short, it will be the spider at the centre of a huge web of snoopers and informants in the countryside.
. ....."