Responding to today’s announcement by The Sentencing Council for England and Wales on the tougher punishments for those who allow their dog to be out of control in a public place, Shadow Defra Minister Huw Irranca-Davies commented:

“Labour supports the strengthening of sentences for attacks by dogs, as part of a package of reforms to deal with the rising tide of dog attacks. But the problem won't be solved until the Government strengthens the enforcement powers to tackle dangerous and irresponsible owners, by introducing powerful new Dog Control Notices and other measures. We need to prevent attacks, as well as punishing the offenders.”