§ Mr. Alex Carlileasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has any proposals concerning damage to sheep farming enterprises by dogs.
§ Mrs. FennerThe loss of sheep and other livestock killed by dogs is a matter of concern to the Government. Livestock worrying is an offence under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953, and the maximum fine on the owner or handler of a dog found worrying livestock on agricultural land was raised in 1984 to £400. The Animals Act 1971 makes the keeper of a dog which kills or injures livestock responsible for the damage and liable to a claim for compensation, and under the same legislation farmers may shoot a dog if there is no other way of preventing it attacking their stock.
The problem of worrying is well understood, and I do not believe there are grounds for an inquiry. However, I am aware that the legislation must be supplemented by a vigorous campaign of education, publicity and advice. My Department is contributing to this by continuing its successful publicity campaign launched in 1984.