Written question asked by David Drew (Labour) on Thursday, 5 June 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 9 June 2008. It was answered by Jonathan Shaw (Labour) on Friday, 13 June 2008 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Coastal Areas: Dogs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether dog-owners will be consulted on coastal access provisions in the Draft Marine Bill; and whether he plans to increase access to the coast to people with dogs under the Bill.

Answer: We have held discussions with the Kennel Club about the coastal access provisions in the draft Marine Bill which aim to improve public access to the English coast for walkers and for those who may be accompanied by a dog.We have no plans to specifically consult dog owners but anyone wishing to comment on the draft Bill may do so by writing to the Marine Bill Team, Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs, Area 2C, Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London, SW1P 3JR, or e-mail:"MarineBillConsultation@defra.gsi.gov.uk."The closing date for responses is 26 June 2008.

Secondary information