Written question asked by Peter Ainsworth (Conservative) on Tuesday, 14 October 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 3 November 2003. It was answered by Hazel Blears (Labour) on Monday, 3 November 2003 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what plans he has to increase penalties on conviction for the theft of pet dogs; and if he will make a statement. - (Holding answer 21 October 2003).

Answer: Mr. Peter Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to increase penalties on conviction for the theft of pet dogs; and if he will make a statement. [132838] Ms Blears: [holding answer 21 October 2003]: There are no plans to increase penalties for the theft of pet dogs. The courts already have robust sentencing powers for theft: the current maximum penalty is seven years imprisonment. The Government believe that these penalties sufficiently reflect the seriousness of the offence.

Secondary information