It’s Official: Scotland passes Bill to ban greyhound racing!
After 3 years of campaigning for a ban on greyhound racing in Scotland, we are thrilled that today, on the 18th March 2026, the Greyhound Racing (Offences) (Scotland) Bill has been voted through by the Scottish Parliament at the third and final Stage following a debate in the chamber! The legislation, introduced by Green MSP Mark Ruskell, makes it illegal to race a greyhound on an oval track in Scotland.
During the debate Mark Ruskell MSP said:
‘The case against greyhound racing is plain to see; the numbers speak for themselves.’
The greyhound racing industry is plagued with serious issues such as deaths, injuries and doping. Animal Concern would like to extend our thanks to MSPs who have spoken out on behalf of greyhounds throughout this process, including Clare Haughey MSP, Rona Mackay MSP, and Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, Jim Fairlie MSP, who supported the bill on behalf of the Scottish government.
Due to the strong evidence in favour of a ban, and the tireless efforts of multiple campaign groups and passionate individuals, Parliament voted in favour of it, protecting greyhounds from this awful exploitation and recognising that it has no place in Scotland.
We are delighted that MSPs decided to vote for the ban: 70 in favour, 27 against, and 19 abstained.
Animal Concern extends our thanks to everyone who has supported this important Bill at each step of the way, all members of the Unbound the Greyhound Coalition, and Mark Russell MSP, without whom this would not have been possible. This is a historic victory for greyhounds and campaigners across Scotland and we are honoured to have been part of it.
