Animal protection in the UK is managed through various government departments and legislation, including:
* The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA): Responsible for animal welfare, including the prevention of cruelty and the regulation of animal trade.
* The Animal Welfare Act 2006: This Act defines animal welfare as a "state of well-being" and outlines the five animal welfare needs:
* A suitable environment
* A suitable diet
* The ability to exhibit normal behaviour
* Good health
* Protection from pain, suffering, injury, and disease
The Queen, as the head of state, is expected to uphold the laws passed by Parliament. She also has the power to grant royal assent to bills passed by Parliament, effectively making them law. Therefore, while she does not directly protect animals, she is ultimately responsible for upholding the laws that protect them.
It's important to note that the Queen does have a personal interest in animal welfare. She is known to be a lover of animals and has owned various pets over the years.