The Bill to restrict glue trap use in England passed its third and final reading in the House of Lords yesterday (April 26) unopposed and with no amendments.

The legislation only curbs the use of the devices by the general public, and permits their continued operation by pest controllers.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) and a number of other animal protection organisations have been campaigning for a ban on these traps, which can cause prolonged suffering for any animal which becomes caught in them.

BVA president Justine Shotton said: “We welcome the news that this bill has passed its third reading and will mean that these cruel glue traps can no longer be used by the general public.

“However, we are disappointed that this new Bill falls short of an outright ban and only puts restrictions on the general public, still allowing ‘pest controllers’ to apply for licences to use the traps.”

The Bill will now go for Royal Assent ahead of the Queen’s speech, which is expected to be on Tuesday, May 10.