Auckland, July 2 NZPA - The SPCA has applauded the Government for passing the Animal Welfare Amendment Act, which will see increased penalties for the neglect and ill-treatment of animals. SPCA branches were delighted about the new law, chief executive Robyn Kippenberger said.

Wellington, July 1 NZPA - Penalties for cruelty to animals have been significantly increased under a bill enacted by unanimous vote in Parlianment today. The Animal Welfare Amendment Act started off as a member's bill drafted by Tauranga MP Simon Bridges.

Wellington, April 30 NZPA - A group of Otago University researchers has told MPs involved in a weight loss contest that they're sending the wrong message and putting their own health at risk.

Wellington, April 22 NZPA - Green Party MP Keith Locke has failed in his bid to let New Zealanders decide whether they want to keep a British monarch as head of state or elect their own non-executive president.

By Maggie Tait of NZPA Wellington, March 25 NZPA - The public's right to poo in private needs to be better protected, politicians were told today.

Wellington, Feb 25 NZPA - Parliament has unanimously supported a bill that significantly increases penalties for cruelty to animals. The Government's Animal Welfare Amendment Bill passed its first reading today, with MPs praising its provisions and saying they were necessary.

Wellington, Feb 16 NZPA - A bill that significantly raises penalties for cruelty to animals was introduced to Parliament today.

Wellington, Feb 2 NZPA - The Government has decided to take over a member's bill to raise the penalty for cruelty to animals, and the MP who drafted it says the decision will send a strong signal that cruelty won't be tolerated.

By Maggie Tait of NZPA Wellington, Feb 2 NZPA - The Government has decided to back a bill increasing penalties for animal cruelty.

By Maggie Tait of NZPA Wellington, Feb 2 NZPA - The Government has decided to back a bill increasing penalties for animal cruelty.