Welsh Government publishes draft bill to ban greyhound racing

The Welsh Government has released a draft of the Prohibition of Greyhound Racing (Wales) Bill, marking a significant step toward ending the sport in Wales. Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies announced the publication to give Senedd Members and stakeholders an early view of the proposed legislation before its formal introduction in the autumn. The bill, if passed, would make it a criminal offence to operate or knowingly permit the use of any stadium or venue for greyhound racing in Wales. It would also criminalize organizing such events, including training or timing greyhounds on a track using mechanical lures.

The draft legislation follows the establishment of an implementation group chaired by Dr Emily Blackwell, a Senior Lecturer in Animal Behaviour and Welfare at Bristol Vet School. The group includes representatives from the greyhound racing industry, animal welfare experts, and community stakeholders, and is tasked with guiding the transition toward a full ban. The Deputy First Minister emphasized that the initiative aligns with Wales’s broader goal of becoming a leader in animal health and welfare standards.

Although the bill is still subject to revision and has not yet been opened for public consultation, its publication signals the government’s intent to phase out greyhound racing entirely. The Welsh Government has invited further scrutiny and discussion once the Senedd reconvenes, with Irranca-Davies expressing his commitment to working collaboratively on the bill’s provisions.

You can read the full draft and official statements on the Welsh Government’s website and written statement page.