Dangerous Dogs

As the owner of a Staffordshire bull terrier—it might be that I am biased—I certainly do not think the breed is dangerous in any sense. Of course, any dog has the potential to be dangerous, but I am wholly opposed to any persecution of any breed. The deed is what counts and responsible dog ownership is what matters, not the breed of dog. I certainly sympathise with the hon. Gentleman's comments. In recent years, we have witnessed a series of tragic incidents involving dogs, and quite rightly, with every high profile attack—particularly when it involves a child—there is a natural demand for Parliament to take a fresh and serious look at the issue of dangerous dogs, to review whether the law is working to best effect in the protection of the public and to examine how things can be improved. Her Majesty's Opposition understand and share the public's concerns. We also share people's fears about the deliberate use of dogs for illegal and sometimes violent purposes, and we are committed to ensuring that the protection of the public is paramount. However, we are also committed to high standards of animal welfare: dogs are man's greatest and most loyal companions, and they too must be protected from abuse and cruelty. Our laws must reflect that.