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  Frequently Asked QuestionsIs there a need for a party that focuses on animal issues?
Yes! Although many animal issues are highly politicised in the UK, with advocates for animals and opponents across the political spectrum, the issues rarely achieve the top of the political agenda. Hundreds of thousands supporters of animal protection organisations are disappointed in the current political parties and feel their concerns about animals are not heard.
Why establish a new ‘animal’ party instead of joining the Green Party?
A vote for the Green Party is in essence a vote for the environment. There is nothing wrong with that, but animal issues will never be at the top of the Green Party’s agenda. It’s time to dedicate a political party to the billions of sentient beings that suffer at our hands.
Is Animals Count a single issue party?
Although the focus of the manifesto issues is on animals, the important link between animals, people and the environment will be the central message. Obviously justice, immigration, foreign policy and other issues are important too, but other political parties already deal with them. Animals need a voice in politics and protection from policies that adversely affect them.
Would a small new party have any effect in a system where there is no proportional representation?
The first-past-the-post system is not conducive to establishing new parties; however we would initially join the Welsh Assembly elections in 2007 where there is a mixed proportional representation system. Animals Count will be campaigning right in the heart of the political arena, with the aim of exerting pressure on other political parties to make them more animal friendly. As long as animals are not protected adequately by existing UK political parties, a dedicated animal party is required to ‘shake up’ the current system.
Will Animals Count be linked to the animal liberation front?
No! The work of Animals Count is purely legal and is contained in the political arena where the power of animal protection legislation is stronger and more sustainable.
Are there any similar parties in other European countries?
Yes! The most successful party is the Dutch ‘Political Party for the Animals’ which almost gained seats in national Parliament in 2003, in European Parliament in 2004, which won two seats in Dutch parliament in the general elections of 22 November 2006!
In Germany , France , Spain and Belgium similar parties for the animals exist.
Where will Animals Count be active?
Initially Animals Count will field candidates in the 2007 Welsh Assembly elections, but the Party will be operating nationwide in the near future.
Do you have to be a vegetarian to join?
No, all animal advocates are welcome to become a member. People who profit from animal abuse practices will be barred. We expect that when more facts about animal cruelty, the adverse impact of meat on the earth and on people’s health become available, people will choose to change to a vegetarian lifestyle.
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