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Dangerous dogs legislation to be debated by MPs

23 November 2023

On Monday 27 November, MPs will debate petitions relating to legislation in respect of dangerous dogs

Nick Fletcher MP, a member of the Petitions Committee, has been asked by the Committee to open the debate. MPs from all parties can take part, and the Government will send a minister to respond.

Repeal the current Dangerous Dogs Act and replace with new framework

The petition, which has more than 107,000 signatures, states: “We want the Government to repeal the Dangerous Dogs Act and replace it with legislation that focuses on early intervention to prevent dog bites and tackle dog-related issues regardless of breed or type, based solely on their behaviour.”

In its response to the petition, provided on 24 January 2023, the Government said: “We currently have no plans to repeal the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. We are considering improvements to the existing legal framework through the Responsible Dog Ownership working group.”

Bad owners are to blame not the breed - don't ban the XL bully

The petition, which has more than 604,000 signatures, states: “I believe that the XL bully is a kind, beautiful natured breed that loves children and people in general, and are very loyal and loving pets.”

This petition is awaiting a response.

What are petitions debates?

Petitions debates are 'general' debates which allow MPs from all parties to discuss the important issues raised by one or more petitions, and put their concerns to Government Ministers.

Petition debates don’t end with a vote to implement the request of a petition. This means MPs will not vote on the requests of the petitions at the end of the debate.

Petition debates are scheduled by the Petitions Committee. Only e-petitions started on the parliament petitions site are considered by the Petitions Committee.

Further information

Image credit: PA