§ Mr. JamiesonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what plans he has to introduce legislation to require dog breeding establishments to incorporate RSPCA guidelines and to be registered with the Kennel Club. [22057]
(2) what representations he has received about the conditions and welfare of dogs at breeding establishments, and if he will make a statement. [22056]
§ Mr. Nicholas BakerMy right hon. and learned Friend has no plans for extending the current legal controls over dog breeding establishments.
All domestic and captive animals are protected against ill treatment by the Protection of Animals Act 1911. Additionally, establishments where dogs are bred for sale are subject to the controls of the Breeding of Dogs Act 1973, which requires dog breeders to be licensed by the local authority. It is for local authorities, which have extensive powers to check on the standards of health, welfare and accommodation of the dogs, to enforce the legislation. These powers were strengthened by the Breeding of Dogs Act 1991, which allows local authorities to enter under warrant any premises other than domestic dwellings, where it is believed that a dog breeding business is carried out.
The Department has received 11 letters from Members of Parliament following an article on dog breeding establishments published by the News of the World on 16 April 1995.