Dangerous dog insurance proposal retracted

A government proposal to make it mandatory for all dog owners to take out third party liability insurance has sparked debate between animal charities, insurance companies and the Opposition.

The proposal is the centrepiece of a 12-week consultation into dangerous dog laws, and aims to find a way to compensate victims of dangerous dog attacks while putting the onus on the owners of these pets. The number of people harmed by dangerous dogs has been a topic of growing concern recently, and a rise in the number of injuries caused by dog attacks prompted a call for the increased responsibility of dog owners in February.

However, the plan has sparked controversy and complaints that the scheme would cause major disruption while also costing millions. There are also concerns that the proposal would see responsible, law-abiding dog owners penalised.

According to The Telegraph, Nick Herbert, the shadow environment secretary, said: "The problem of dangerous dogs is growing and the current legislation is clearly not working, but the Government's proposals risk penalising millions of law-abiding dog owners with the blunt instrument of a dog tax.

"We should be targeting the minority of irresponsible dog owners, not the vast majority who are responsible dog lovers."

Animal welfare groups also reacted to the plans with concern. Steve Goody of the Blue Cross explained: "In theory compulsory insurance is a good idea but the question is whether this law is workable."

In the face of widespread condemnation, the government appears to have amended its proposals. The Express reports that Home Secretary Alan Johnson yesterday suggested that some aspects of his scheme would not "survive" government scrutiny.

Mr Johnson said: "What we have done in the consultation document is to have a fundamental look right across the board about the issue and the various ideas people have about dealing with dangerous dogs.

"Insurance and microchipping is an important part of the consultation. Some things will survive, some won't."

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 01:37:00 GMT