Thank you to everyone who has contacted me about dog attacks and the American Bully.

I understand that people feel very strongly about this issue. However, following recent high-profile stories of attacks involving these dogs, with some attacks occurring in South London, it is clear to me that something needs to change.

As you know, the Government announced in September 2023 that it would add the American XL Bully to the list of dogs that are banned under dog control legislation known as the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. There are currently four breeds on this list: the Pit Bull Terrier, the Japanese Tosa, the Dogo Argentino and the Fila Brasiliero.

Previously, the Home Secretary announced that she had commissioned advice about the possibility of adding the American XL Bully.

I do understand that this decision is not what everybody wants to see. However, I do support the decision to update the Dangerous Dogs Act and review the list of dangerous dogs to include the American XL Bully.

Under current legislation, the police and local authorities have the ability to take a banned dog away, although it should be noted that owners are able to apply for an exemption.

I understand the Government states it is convening experts to define the breed so that it can be banned. It has said it will bring forward details of a transition period for existing owners of American XL Bullies in due course. I know that the Chief Veterinary Officer has indicated that a cull of these dogs will not take place. Instead, she said that certain actions are likely to be necessary during an ‘amnesty’ period in order for owners to keep the dogs, such as registering, insuring and neutering the dogs, as well as muzzling them in public and keeping them on leads.

Thank you once again to all who have contacted me about this issue. I will continue to follow developments on this closely.