Useful Contacts: E-Collar / Electric Shock Collar Policy Engagement in England
Introduction
The regulation of training equipment, including electric shock collars (commonly referred to as e-collars), remains an active area of policy discussion within England. As part of the UK Government’s Animal Welfare Strategy, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has confirmed its intention to consult on the use of electric shock collars for dogs.
This article has been produced by the National Association for Professional E-Collar Training (NAPET) to provide clarity and transparency around who is involved in shaping, implementing, and scrutinising this policy. By identifying the relevant Government ministers and Members of Parliament (MPs), professionals and stakeholders can better understand where responsibility and influence sit within the current policy landscape.
Why This Matters
Public debate around dog training tools is often highly emotive. However, policy decisions are ultimately shaped through formal Government processes, Parliamentary scrutiny, and ministerial responsibility.
Understanding:
which ministers are responsible for decision-making,
which MPs are actively raising questions in Parliament, and
how policy has evolved over time,
allows for informed, responsible, and evidence-led engagement with the consultation process.
NAPET’s role as a professional body is not to campaign politically, but to support transparency, professional standards, and welfare-focused outcomes through accurate information.
Government (DEFRA) — Responsible for the Animal Welfare Strategy
DEFRA- Department for Enviroment Food & Rural Affairs
The following ministers currently hold responsibility for animal welfare policy and the proposed consultation on electric shock collars.
Emma Reynolds MP
Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)
Emma Reynolds MP is the Government minister who has formally announced that Defra will consult on banning the use of electric shock collars for dogs in England. As Secretary of State, she holds direct responsibility for setting the scope and direction of this consultation.
Dame Angela Eagle MP
Minister of State, Defra
Dame Angela Eagle MP has responded to written Parliamentary questions confirming Defra’s intention to consult on electric shock collars and to consider the scope and evidence base informing that consultation.
Backbench MPs Raising Written Parliamentary Questions
The following MPs are not responsible for delivering legislation, but have actively raised written questions in Parliament that apply pressure, shape discussion, or seek to expand the scope of proposed restrictions.
James Naish MP
Labour MP for Rushcliffe
James Naish MP has asked whether Defra intends to legislate to ban the sale of shock collars, not only their use, as part of the Animal Welfare Strategy. He has also tabled related questions concerning other training equipment in the same policy context.
Dr Allison Gardner MP
Labour MP
Dr Allison Gardner MP raised questions in a previous Parliament regarding whether Defra planned to ban both the sale and use of electric shock collars for dogs.
Sarah Champion MP
Labour MP for Rotherham
Sarah Champion MP is known to have pressed Defra on its engagement with animal welfare organisations regarding the use of electric shock collars in dog training. Her involvement is frequently referenced in Parliamentary discourse and advocacy monitoring.
James McMurdock MP
Independent MP for South Basildon & East Thurrock
James McMurdock MP has asked when Defra intends to launch its consultation on banning the use of electric shock collars, seeking clarity on timelines and process.
Previous Ministers — Historical Context
The following ministers were involved during the earlier draft 2023 electric shock collar regulations, which have since lapsed. They are included here for policy timeline context only and are not current decision-makers.
Mark Spencer MP
Former Defra Minister
Mark Spencer MP responded to Parliamentary questions relating to the draft 2023 regulations and their intended commencement timelines.
Steve Barclay MP
Former Secretary of State for Defra
Steve Barclay MP was in office when the draft 2023 electric shock collar regulations were laid before Parliament.
NAPET’s Position
NAPET exists to support ethical, responsible, and professional practice within dog training. We recognise the importance of animal welfare, public confidence, and evidence-based decision-making.
By publishing this information, NAPET aims to:
improve transparency around policy responsibility,
support informed participation in consultation processes, and
encourage constructive, professional engagement between trainers, policymakers, and the public.
Disclaimer
This article reflects publicly available Parliamentary records and ministerial responsibilities at the time of publication and is provided for transparency and informational purposes only.
