HC Deb 14 May 1918 vol 106 c199
Sir A. FELL (by Private Notice)

asked whether any action, and, if so, what, is contemplated with a view to effecting a reduction of the number of dogs in the United Kingdom, having regard to the difficulties of the food situation?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The recommendations of the Committee of Ministers who have at my request been looking into this matter have only to-day been communicated to me. I cannot, therefore, indicate at the moment the precise nature of the recommendations or how far it may be possible to give effect to them, but I may say at once that no order for the destruction of dogs, such as seems to have been anticipated in some quarters, is suggested.

Mr. RENDALL

Does the undertaking—it is not quite an undertaking, but almost—that no Order could be made without the House being consulted still hold good?

Mr. BONAR LAW

It is not quite an undertaking, but if any steps are taken I think it will require legislation.

Mr. DIXON

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider a suggestion that all dogs should be kept for a week on leash or in kennel, so that all undesirable dogs that people care nothing about could be taken by the police?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I am afraid I should need time to consider that suggestion.

Back to