ANIMAL companion charity FOUR PAWS has presented Ruth Jones with a prestigious award in recognition of her “unwavering commitments” to animal welfare issues in Parliament.

Before the general election in July, Mrs Jones served as the Labour Party’s shadow minister for animal welfare, working alongside campaign groups to raise the profile of animal issues and scrutinise the record of the Conservative government.

On Tuesday 3 September, the MP for Newport West and Islwyn was crowned this year’s “animal welfare” winner in the Political Purpose Awards.

Sonul Badiani-Hamment, country director for FOUR PAWS UK, said: “We are delighted to present this award to Ruth and to celebrate her unwavering commitments to animal welfare.

“Ruth has stood with us on many important issues, including supporting important Bills to disrupt the cruel trade in puppy smuggling and to ban the import of hunting trophies.

“Animals matter to the compassionate British public, who expect politicians to act. We look forward to continuing to work with Ruth to ensure these important issues, along with banning the import and sale of fur, and foie gras, other issues Ruth has indicated her support for, are prioritised and supported by the new government. Animals cannot wait.”

Mrs Jones said: “I pride myself on my commitments to improved animal welfare and I am absolutely delighted to be the recipient of this important award.

“I know my constituents in Newport West and Islwyn care enormously about animals and they want to see Parliament reflect their compassion.

“I will continue to stand up for animals, pushing for improved animal welfare both in the UK and internationally.”