Written question asked by Adam Price (Plaid Cymru) on Tuesday, 20 May 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 3 June 2003. It was answered by Elliot Morley (Labour) on Tuesday, 3 June 2003 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dept for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if she will make a statement on further measures the Government will take to prevent attacks on children by dangerous dogs. - Includes ref to Dogs Act 1871 and The Dangerous Dogs Acts 1991 and 1997.

Answer: Adam Price: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make a statement on further measures the Government will take to prevent attacks on children by dangerous dogs. [115891] Mr. Morley: Under the Dogs Act 1871 a magistrates court may make an order for the control or destruction of a dog that is dangerous and not kept under proper control. This Act applies everywhere, including in and around a private house. The Dangerous Dogs Acts 1991 and 1997 has increased the range of penalties available to the court to deal with offenders whose dog is dangerously out of control in a public place. The Dangerous Dogs Acts have also placed restrictions over the ownership of types of dogs that have the characteristics of a type bred for fighting. I have no plans to introduce additional measures.

Secondary information