§ Sir John WheelerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) if he will inquire from each of the police forces in England and Wales and thereafter publish the costs to the police of kennelling stray dogs and any other associated costs during the most recent 12-month period;
(2) if he will inquire from each of the police forces in England and Wales and thereafter publish the costs associated with policing the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, during the first year of the Act, distinguishing (i) the total spent in kennelling dangerous dogs, (ii) the cost of veterinary fees, (iii) the purchase of protective clothing and equipment and (iv) the estimate of the cost of time spent by police officers being trained to identify the types of dog covered by the Act, in seizing dogs and preparing evidence.
§ Mr. Charles WardleI understand that my right hon. Friend has been provided with information on the costs to the Metropolitan police of policing the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 and of dealing with stray dogs.
Similar information in respect of provincial police forces in England and Wales is not readily available and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.