HL Deb 22 March 1979 vol 399 cc1403-4WA
Lord HOUGHTON of SOWERBY

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are aware of the numerous instances of theft of domestic pets in the Leeds and Essex areas recently and whether they will renew their warning to University and other research laboratories to be on guard against receiving stolen animals.

Lord BOSTON of FAVERSHAM

We understand from the Chief Constables of West Yorkshire and Essex that very few cases of theft of domestic pets have been reported to the police recently and that they are aware of no evidence to support the suggestion in the first part of my noble friend's question. The Home Office notes for the guidance of laboratories stress the need to ensure that cats and dogs are not purchased from sellers unable to provide evidence of ownership. It is the view of the Cruelty to Animals Inspectorate, who visit laboratories, that those establishments which purchase animals from dealers, as opposed to breeders, are fully aware of the law relating to pet stealing and are conscious of their responsibilities in this respect.