A SUSSEX MP has thrown his support behind a ban on "no pet" clauses in rented accommodation and leaseholds in England.

Crawley MP Henry Smith said he is backing a Bill, known as “Jasmine’s Law”, which if passed, will mean renters will no longer be forced to sacrifice having a pet.

The bill would establish the right to bring a pet into rented accommodation, subject to certain requirements and exemptions.

Pet owners would be expected to demonstrate that they meet a legal definition “responsible ownership.”

Mr Smith said that the Bill would offer peace of mind to pet owners living in rented accommodation.

He said: “Britain is a nation of animal lovers, and Crawley is no different. With more and more people renting, it’s intolerable that so many are forced to give up their beloved pet in order to move into rented accommodation.

“I know this campaign will be one dear to the heart of many in Crawley.”

The bill’s second reading has been delayed, due to the suspension of Friday sittings of the House of Commons, however a launch event took place on with guest speakers from Parliament and major animal welfare organisations.

Andre Rosindell, MP for Romford, proposed Jasmine’s Law in the Commons, which was named after a Weimaraner dog who was unable to stay with her owner due to the tenancy agreement.

He said: “The pandemic has brought into focus the importance of pets to our well-being.

“It is time for the law to recognise this by giving people the right under certain conditions to bring pets into rented accommodation.

“I have been enormously humbled by the huge support I have received from this campaign.

“It is vital we build up support both inside and outside of Parliament, and I am delighted to receive the support of my colleague Henry Smith MP in this.”

The legislation is backed by animal welfare organisations including the RSPCA, Battersea, Street Vet and Cats Protection.

A spokesperson for the RSPCA said: “The RSPCA is happy to support this Bill, which would be a big step forward for dog owning renters.

“With more people living in rented accommodation – whether private or social housing – the issue of the lack of dog friendly rental options is becoming an increasing problem for dog owners and animal welfare charities alike.”