HC Deb 09 May 1977 vol 931 c366W
Mr. Baker

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if his Department issues licences for motorists to take their dogs for a walk; whether he will estimate how many such licences have been issued by his Department; and what is the cost to public funds and the number of staff employed.

Mr. Denis Howell

As parking is not normally permitted before 11 a.m. in Regents Park, motorists who have requested such facilities are permitted to park in the Longbridge area of the Inner Circle for periods between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. to enable them to walk their dogs. Some 45 permits have been issued. No special staff are employed and the cost to public funds is minimal.

Mr. Burden

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he proposes to seek to introduce legislation affecting dogs and their ownership.

Mr. Denis Howell

The report of the Working Party on Dogs, which went into a wide range of issues affecting dogs and their owners, has been the subject of public consultation and I am now considering what action is practicable in present circumstances.