| Call for Animal Constitution In
a move that seems to have caused a split in her working relationship with Village Elder
Arthur 'Red’ Covers, Wendy Smith is pushing what some see as a radical animal rights
agenda (see Around Puckering).
Whilst England is perceived by outsiders as a nation of animal lovers, with such
legislation as the Wild Mammals Protection Act (1996) making it a crime to squish a
hedgehog, Wendy thinks there is still more to be done. The unmarried Miss Smith, in a
long-term relationship with her dachshund, is trying to build an Animal Bill of Rights to
protect the pooches and other creatures of Puckering.
Her Animal Constitution (not a comment on physiology) seeks to include such measures
as:
- Freedom of association
- Freedom of speech
- Freedom from petty government interference
- Right to privacy
- Equal protection under the law
Miss Smith is open to further suggestions, but feels the rights outlined above form an
essential first step forward. "The animals need these basic freedoms. Without
them they're at the mercy of people, and we've proven an unmerciful lot for the most
part."
"She's a loony," counters Nigel Morcombe, longtime resident of
the village and former candidate for Village Elder. "Why does a dog need privacy?
Or free speech for that matter? My Booties barks all she wants. A bit too much,
actually."
Undaunted by such a reception, Smith hopes to lead animals in a passive
resistance movement to seek acceptance of her proposals. |
