James is one of four new members of The Animal Welfare Committee (AWC) which is made up of experts in farming, wild animals and pets. It provides detailed research and advice to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and the devolved administrations in Scotland and Wales.

James, who lives in Midhurst, has been Chief Executive of Cats Protection since 2018. He is a qualified vet, with degrees in Veterinary Science and Bioethics, as well as a PhD. He becomes the only new appointee to the AWC to specialise in companion animals.

Formerly, he was Chief Veterinary Officer at the RSPCA and is also a Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) Registered Specialist in animal welfare, science, ethics and law and a diplomate of the RCVS and the European College of Animal Welfare and Behavioural Medicine.

James said: “I’m delighted to be taking up this role with the Animal Welfare Committee as an expert in the welfare of companion animals. The Committee has a strong record in being a force for good, and looks set to have an ever-greater impact and importance in the coming years.

“This role offers the potential to translate scientific findings, alongside other research and information, into guidance that will help animals and the people who live, work and care for animals.

“It’s an honour to be working alongside like-minded individuals to help improve the welfare of all animals in the UK.”

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity, helping around 200,000 cats every year through a network of around 250 volunteer-run branches and 36 centres.

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