§ Mr. CryerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will introduce legislation to require owners of breeds of dogs involved in serious attacks on children and adults to muzzle such dogs when in a public place; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Charles WardleThe Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 provides that all exempted dogs—that is, fighting dogs such as the pit bull terrier—must be muzzled when in a public place. The Act also gives the courts powers to impose a muzzling order on a dog of any breed or type which they judge potentially or actually dangerous.
In addition, my right hon. and learned Friend has a reserve power under section 2 of the Act to impose restrictions relating to muzzling, leashing and abandoning any breed or type of dog which, after having taken advice, he considers presents a serious danger to the public. The need to use this power is kept under review.