Chris Packham and Caroline Lucas Resign from RSPCA Over Animal Welfare Concerns

The high-profile resignations follow allegations of cruelty at RSPCA-approved slaughterhouses and criticism of the charity's response.

Chris Packham and Caroline Lucas have stepped down as RSPCA president and vice-president, citing dissatisfaction with the charity's handling of animal cruelty allegations.
The resignations were prompted by undercover footage from Animal Rising, which showed mistreatment of animals at RSPCA Assured slaughterhouses in England and Scotland.
Packham and Lucas criticized the RSPCA leadership for delays and defensiveness, stating the charity failed to enact meaningful reforms to its assurance scheme.
The RSPCA suspended three implicated slaughterhouses and defended its farm assurance program, claiming it has driven significant improvements in animal welfare standards.
This marks the second high-profile resignation from the RSPCA in recent months, following Brian May's departure in September over similar concerns.