News Release

6th February 2003

SPANISH DOGS

Following Michael Fabricant's proposals to control dogs' mess in Britain [see the news release of the 14th January],Michael is now turning his attention to the protection of dogs in Spain. He and fellow Conservative MP, Andrew Rossindell, have tabled a Parliamentary Motion calling for an end to the barbaric practice in Spain of hanging dogs. The Motion has attracted cross-party support with over 50 MPs signing the Motion. Now, Michael Fabricant says he will be contacting Conservative Members of the European Parliament to see what pressure they can bring to bear on the Spanish Government. Michael has also written to the Spanish Ambassador - but is still waiting for a reply!

The text of the Parliamentary Motion reads:-

"That this House condemns the barbaric practice reportedly being carried out in Spain of hanging dogs once they have outlived their usefulness; agrees with the World Society for the Protection of animals that such appalling cruelty is scandalous; believes that to treat man's best friend in such a callous way is utterly unacceptable in any country; and urges the Government of Spain to outlaw these most despicable acts of wickedness."

Michael Fabricant now says: "We are constantly being told that the European Union stands for a new and enlightened Continent. It is astonishing that dog hanging is practised in Spain and still more bizarre that it is legal.

"Given all the costly legislation that Brussels imposes on the United Kingdom, I hope they might find time instead to protect the welfare of animals on the continent. I am counting on Conservative and other Members of the European Parliament to intervene over this."