MPs back call for dog law reform

14 December 2011

Dozens of MPs came out of the House of Commons this morning to show their support for the ever-widening campaign for new laws controlling dangerous dogs.

Some 20* organisations - including the CWU, RSPCA, Police Federation and many others - are behind this initiative, which sets out a six-point plan for a new Bill tackling this growing social hazard in the interests of public-service workers, the welfare of the animals themselves and the safety of society as a whole.

The key aims of the proposed reform are to address the weaknesses of existing law - creating an effective and enforceable dog control system, new powers of prevention and intervention for police and local authorities, a "deed not breed" approach to dogs, real penalties for irresponsible owners, encouragement of responsible owners and, crucially for the CWU, the extension of the law to cover all attacks on private property.

On a bitterly cold morning, representatives of all the supporting groups stood together bearing the message: "Put dog law reform on your Xmas list," urging Members of Parliament to do all they can to get the issue included in the forthcoming Queen's Speech.

Representing frontline CWU members, safety reps Dominic Beck and Alan Godden agreed that events like today's played an important role in highlighting the subject.

"It's great to see so many other organisations backing the campaign for change," said Dominic, from South West London Postal Branch, and Greater London Combined Alan added: "We need a change in the law and I hope the MPs here will take that message back to the others."

CWU national health, safety and environment officer Dave Joyce said: "This morning showed that the call for dog law reform is supported by organisations and individuals right across society - and by MPs on all sides of the House.

"What's needed now is for our politicians to take that strong public support and turn it into serious political action.

"Last year, Prime Minister David Cameron wrote to me and assured us that he supports extending dangerous dog laws to cover private property.

"Mr Cameron, please remember your promise and include a new Dog Control Bill in the next Queen's Speech."

CWU general secretary Billy Hayes said: "The law needs more teeth. We want dog owners to be more responsible to prevent attacks.

"With 70 per cent of attacks on postal workers taking place on private property where the law doesn't apply, there's little protection or compensation. Our members have received injuries ranging from cuts and bruises to having their fingers bitten off."

Sign the e-petitionnow to force a House of Commons debate and put pressure on the Government to deliver on its assurances to overhaul dog laws and bring forward new legislation in the Queen's Speech.

For more information on the campaign visit Dangerous Dogs - Bite Back.

*Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, Blue Cross, BSAVA, BT, CWU, Dogs Trust, GMB, Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, IIRSM, Kennel Club, National Dog Wardens Association, Police Federation, Prospect, Royal Mail Group, RCVS, RSPCA, UNISON, USDAW, Unite and Wood Green, the Animals Charity.

Marcel, a greying staffie, is a stray who was found a month ago on a street in Islington. He is currently being housed at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home hoping to find a loving new home in the New Year. As a 'staffie' he has a bad rap but, says Rob (pictured with him) from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home: "We want an end to breed-specific legislation, look at Marcel - we've had him a month and he's such a gentle dog."

If you think Marcel would make a welcome addition to your home this Christmas why not contact the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.

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