Dangerous dogs

Much to the disappointment of the CWU communications workers’ union, the Welsh Assembly has announced it is to “suspend further work on the Control of Dogs (Wales) Bill” in favour of more limited proposals which were announced in a Home Office Bill in the Queen’s Speech.

CWU general secretary Billy Hayes said: “Westminster’s proposals are far inferior to the draft legislation which Wales has been meticulously preparing. England would have been left the poor neighbour in terms of dangerous dogs legislation as both Scotland and Northern Ireland have already introduced comprehensive new dogs laws.

The Home Office Bill includes key changes such as extending the law to private property and compulsory microchipping. “But it’s disappointing this has come at the cost of far better — and quicker — legislation for Wales,” said Hayes.