HC Deb 19 February 1970 vol 796 cc584-5
57. Mr. Brooks

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what proposals for public education on the health and other hazards caused by dogs fouling footways he has made, following the discussions held last October with the local authority associations.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

My right hon. Friend is still considering with other interested Departments whether anything can usefully be done on a national basis, but it seems probable that the matter can most effectively be dealt with locally where the nuisance occurs. Some local authorities have already taken steps to draw the attention of dog owners to their responsibilities in this matter.

Mr. Brooks

Would my hon. Friend not confirm that at the discussions last October it was the express intention of the Home Office to embark on a programme of public education? Would he not agree that this is a matter which for far too long we have taken lightly and which can present a serious health hazard?

Mr. Rees

The matter of health is not a question for the Home Office. I agree that education is required, but it is difficult to convince dog owners of their responsibility in this matter. It is one of the most difficult educational matters I know.

58. Mr. Brooks

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will publish in the OFFICIAL REPORT the number of prosecutions made in 1968 and 1969 of persons whose dogs had fouled the footway or other public places.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

I regret that this information is not available.

Mr. Brooks

But is my hon. Friend not aware that all the evidence suggests that remarkably few prosecutions have been mounted? Would he not agree that this matter should not be dealt with with the sort of levity customarily shown in the House on these occasions and that, until by prosecutions dog owners are made aware of their responsibility in this matter, it is no good blaming the dogs?

Mr. Rees

I am sure that the words of my hon. Friends will be taken note of at least by the owners.