HC Deb 10 November 1982 vol 31 c168W
Mr. Hill

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, in each of the years 1971, 1976 and 1981, how many dogs were licensed; and what was the licence fee paid.

Mrs. Fenner

The number of dogs licensed in England in each of the financial years concerned, at a fee of 37½p each, was as follows:

Year Numbers
1970–71 2,604,316
1975–76 2,510,755
1980–81 2,479,450

Mr. Banks

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will set out the value of the dog licence, adjusted for inflation, since it was set at its present level.

Mrs. Fenner

I am advised by the Central Statistical Office that, in terms of purchasing power, an estimate for the corresponding amount today might be in the region of £10.

Mr. Walter Johnson

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what recent representations have been made to him concerning the level of the dog licence fee; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Fenner

I have received a number of letters this year, most, but not all, advocating an increase in the licence fee. The Government have no plans at present to increase the fee in Great Britain.