MPs are calling for a new animal welfare law to be brought in as tribute to Sir David Amess.

Conservative Andrew Rosindell (Romford) read out a short quote from Sir David that showed his support for the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill.

Sir David, the MP for Southend West, died after he was attacked during a constituency surgery in Leigh-on-Sea in Essex, earlier this month.

He was known for his campaigning to improve animal welfare.

Speaking in the Commons as MPs considered the Bill at second reading, Mr Rosindell (Romford) said: “As our dear friend David Amess said in June about the Kept Animals Bill: ‘I hope the House will come together, support the Bill, and get it quickly onto the statute book’.

“I could think of no better tribute to him and to the animals across the United Kingdom which he so adored.”

Deputy Speaker Nigel Evans added: “I think one thing is absolutely certain, that had the tragedy not befallen David recently he would have been in this debate today championing animal rights, which was so close to his heart.”

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Earlier, Environment Secretary George Eustice highlighted Sir David’s “tireless work” to improve animal welfare standards during his 38 years as an MP.

Mr Eustice added: “We will feel his absence today – typically a couple of rows behind me on my left shoulder, sometimes with helpful interventions, often with more challenging interventions, but always with a sense of goodwill and positive smile even when being challenging.”

The Bill would ban live exports of farmed animals for slaughter or fattening, crack down on puppy smuggling and give police new powers to deal with dogs attacking or worrying livestock.

It also aims to improve zoo regulations and ensure they are doing more to contribute to conservation and would seek to stop people keeping primates as pets in England – with the Government expected to table an amendment to extend this to Wales.