Mr. FOOT MITCHELLasked the Minister of Agriculture whether his attention has been called to the increasing number of cases of sheep worrying by dogs; and whether he will consider introducing legislation to increase the penalties for not keeping these animals under control?
§ Sir H. BARNSTONThe Ministry's attention has been called from time to time to cases of sheep worrying by dogs, but there is no information to show that such cases are on the increase. With regard to the second part of the question, the Dogs Acts of 1871 and 1906 already provide considerable penalties, and render the owner of a dog liable in damages for any injury done to cattle or sheep. My right hon. Friend does not, therefore, consider there is any need to introduce legislation to increase penalties for the contravening of these Acts.