§ 31. Mr. Hendersonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if the Lord Advocate has discussed with the Scottish Law Commission the legal problems of loss, injury and damage caused by animals; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RifkindAs I indicated earlier to my hon. Friend, the Scottish Law Commission is examining the law on civil liability for animals as part of its review of the law of obligations and will publish a memorandum in the next few months. My noble and learned Friend the Lord Advocate has not discussed the matter with the commission, but the Government will give careful consideration to its recommendations in due course.
§ Mr. HendersonDoes my hon. Friend recall that appendix B of the report of the working party on dogs in 1976 gave only the implications for English legislation? Will the Law Commission report, which we are now expecting, deal with the implications for Scottish legislation?
§ Mr. RifkindThe Scottish Law Commission's consideration of this matter will cover all aspects of civil liability regarding injury as a result of actions by animals.
§ Sir Russell FairgrieveA particular problem regarding dogs is the number of puppies that must be put down after Christmas. Will my hon. Friend suggest to his colleagues that the time is well overdue for a draconian rise in the cost of the dog licence, which over the last two decades is the only licence whose price has not increased? Should it not go up considerably?
§ Mr. RifkindMy hon. Friend will appreciate that this question relates to the responsibilities of the Secretary of State, but I note his comments.
§ Mr. SpeakerMr. Tam Dalyell, to ask Question 32.
§ Mr. DalyellNot moved, Mr. Speaker.