According to the BBC, Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie wrote to Ruskell, confirming government support for the Prohibition of Greyhound Racing (Scotland) Bill, though ministers intend to introduce changes before it becomes law.

The bill has been floating around government offices since at least July of last year.

Adjustments sought include allowing ministers to determine the commencement date, rather than enforcing the current 12-month implementation period, and revising provisions around enforcement.

Ruskell welcomed the support, calling it a milestone in efforts to end what he described as a gambling-driven practice with inherent risks to animal welfare.

He stressed the need for Scotland to act in step with international moves, pointing to the Welsh Government’s April announcement to outlaw the sport and similar plans in New Zealand.

Animal welfare organisations united under the Unbound the Greyhound coalition also praised the government’s stance.

Campaigners have long argued that there is no safe way to compel dogs to race around tracks at high speeds.

Scotland Against Greyhound Exploitation, one of the coalition members, has been vocal in pressing for a ban.

More greyhound deaths become catalyst for change

Industry data, as reported by The Times, shows that in 2023, 109 greyhounds were reported to have died trackside in the UK, up from 2022, while 4,238 injuries were recorded.

These ranged from minor grazes and broken nails to more serious injuries, including 108 long bone fractures of the fore and hind legs.

Currently, Scotland has no active licensed greyhound racing. The nation’s last functioning track, Thornton Stadium in Kirkcaldy, suspended operations indefinitely in March.

In response to the legislation, the Greyhound Board of Great Britain criticised the government’s focus, saying voters would question the attention being paid to a sport which is no longer operating in Scotland.

No races currently take place in Scotland, according to the organisation, which pointed out that the last race took place in March.

Supporters of the ban argue that formal legislation is still required to prevent any revival of the industry. The RSPCA has highlighted that only nine countries globally, including the UK, still permit commercial greyhound racing.

With government backing secured, the bill will progress through the Scottish Parliament, where further scrutiny and amendments are expected before a final vote.

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