Lincolnshire mum takes ‘Holly’s Law’ campaign to Westminster

A Lincolnshire mum whose daughter was murdered by her husband is taking her campaign for “Holly’s Law” to Westminster on Wednesday.

Annette Bramley, from Holbeach, is meeting the Minister for Violence Against Women and Girls, Jess Phillips, alongside South Holland and The Deepings MP Sir John Hayes and Lord Black.

She is calling for a national register of animal cruelty offenders - after her daughter Holly’s husband had a known history of abusing animals.

The campaign follows Holly’s death in 2023.

Annette believes animal abuse can be a key warning sign of domestic violence, but says awareness of that link is still too low.

“There’s not enough knowledge about the link between domestic abuse and animal cruelty,” she said.

“Not every member of Parliament understands the importance of it, and that’s where we need to get it out there.”

She added: “There is a fear of somebody else being killed by a partner that harms animals… people who harm animals can go on to harm humans.”

The meeting comes as the campaign gains growing political backing.

Sir John Hayes has written to the Leader of the House of Commons, with more than 50 MPs and Lords adding their names in support.

“As soon as Annette drew my attention to what she hoped to achieve, I was moved and inspired to do more,” he said.

He added the link between animal cruelty and domestic abuse “can’t be ignored”.

Sir John and Lord Black have also worked together to push the issue in Parliament, including tabling an amendment to the Crime and Policing Bill.

Although it was not taken forward, supporters say getting it on the record is an important step - with further legislative routes now being explored.

They have also been working with domestic abuse and animal welfare organisations, including the RSPCA, ahead of today’s meeting.