MP slams backtrack on danger dog laws

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PLANS by the Tory-Lib Dem coalition government to water down proposed legislation to tackle dangerous dogs have been slammed by Dave Watts MP.

The Dog Control Bill, proposed by Lib Dem peer Lord Redesdale and intended to replace the Dangerous Dogs Act, will see a shift away from focusing on the breed of dog, to the behaviour of the owner and the animal.

However, speaking in Parliament, Agriculture Minister James Paice said the government has doubts over certain aspects of the proposals.

He admitted they are minded not to introduce compulsory microchipping of so-called dangerous dogs because “the people whom we are trying to address would not do it”.

Mr Watts, Labour MP for St Helens North, who has been highly vocal in his desire to see tough action against irresponsible dog owners since the death of little Ellie Lawrenson more than three years ago, responded: “On that basis, no law would be followed. We need some form of registration.

"Some measures where you can instruct people to muzzle a dog or fence them in if they are a danger.

“For example postmen and women need better protection.

"I have seen figures, which state that 100 people a week require hospital treatment and the number nationally of people attacked a year has gone from 3,000 to 4,000. Ninety two postmen and women are bitten each week.

“It demonstrates what a serious problem there is. I am a dog lover, but mine are never off the lead when I go out.

"I also have a box at the back of my letterbox so the dog can’t snatch the post.

"This government is against anything they see as bureaucracy.

“It’s the job of government to make sure that people are protected, otherwise there will be other deaths and serious injuries caused by these dogs.

"Recently in St Helens we have had a case were a dog savaged another pet and a woman.

“I believe it’s clear from the statistics that something needs to be done and serious consideration needs to be given to dog ASBOs and chipping.

"If I don’t chip my dog and the dog warden catches him, there will be a fine and someone will have to pick the dog up.

"We have to find a way of holding people to account.”