PET loving MP Giles Watling is calling for a change in the law to make it illegal to eat dogs in Britain.

The Clacton MP has tabled an amendment to the upcoming Brexit Agriculture Bill to enact the new law to prohibit the human consumption, transport and possession of dog and cat meat.

The crime would be punishable by up to six months in prison.

There is no evidence dog meat is eaten in the UK, however it is hoped the move will send a strong message to other countries in the Far East, where an estimated 30 million dogs a year are slaughtered to be eaten.

The move comes after the US Congress made it illegal last year.

Mr Watling said 30 million dogs are slaughtered every year and that 15,000 are killed during the ten-day Yulin festival in China. Often those animals are boiled, skinned and blow-torched while they are alive.

Mr Watling’s campaign has the backing of two former ministers, Sir Robert Syms and Tracey Crouch, and former London mayor candidate Zac Goldsmith.

The amendment could also be supported by Labour.

Mr Watling has now met with Minister for Food and Animal Welfare, David Rutley, to discuss a possible ban on the consumption of dog and cat meat.

Mr Watling said: “I grew up with animals of all sorts and am the proud owner of three fairly noisy but lovely dogs, Minnie, Humphrey, and Herbie.

“That personal experience ensures that animal welfare is always high on my agenda.

“I have no doubt anyone who hears of these deplorable practices cannot help but feel disgust.

“These are our companions, they are not food and they need to be protected – both here and internationally.

“It is quite right there are many important issues to focus on in Parliament at the moment.

“But we have the ability to multi-task and we can introduce a comprehensive ban on consumption quickly.”

Mr Watling added: “A proper ban on consumption in the UK will help to protect these animals around the world.”

The World Dog Alliance has launched a campaign in the UK calling for a full ban on the eating of dogs.