§ Mr. Nicholas Wintertonasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what recent representations he has received on sheep worrying by dogs; whether this is a growing problem; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerOne representation has reached me from the Greater Manchester area. Though the national level of damage has not shown a significant long-term trend, about 17 per cent. fewer sheep were killed, and about 37 per cent. fewer injured, in 1978 compared with the preceding year. The maximum fine for allowing a dog to worry livestock was increased to £200 in 1977, and I note with interest that last year the average penalty imposed increased by more than half. I have no further measures in mind.