HL Deb 28 January 1971 vol 314 cc1059-60

3.10 p.m.

LORD DE CLIFFORD

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

[The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether the review of all matters concerning dog licences covers not only the cost but also the basis on which persons are licensed to keep dogs, and when the review is likely to be completed.]

EARL ST. ALDWYN

My Lords, the review of dog licensing on which Her Majesty's Government is engaged covers all aspects of this subject and not only the cost of a licence. Several Government Departments are involved. No one would pretend that the present arrangements are very sensible, and it is not easy to find a simple and straightforward way of improving them. I cannot say when the review will be completed, but it is hoped that a decision will be reached before long.

LORD DE CLIFFORD

My Lords, I thank the noble Earl for that Answer. I would ask that when the Government reach a decision they will bear in mind the great difference between the commercial uses to which dogs are put and their use as private pets and for charitable purposes.

EARL ST. ALDWYN

My Lords, do I gather that the noble Lord is advocating two forms of licence?

LORD DE CLIFFORD

My Lords, the noble Earl is quite correct. I do not think that these uses should be treated on the same footing.

EARL ST. ALDWYN

My Lords, I will certainly bear that in mind.

LORD BYERS

My Lords, may I ask how it comes about that dog licences are now the responsibility of the Chief Whip?

EARL ST. ALDWYN

My Lords, it may be felt in some quarters that that is not entirely inappropriate. As I think the noble Lord knows, the Whips have to answer for various Departments, and on this occasion I happen to be answering for the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.