Commissioner applauds ministers on Finn’s Law progress
15th June 2018
The Police and Crime Commissioner for Northumbria has offered her congratulations to ministers, following today’s debate in parliament on protecting service animals. Dame Vera Baird QC wrote to Justice Secretary, Rt Hon David Gauke MP back in March urging him to implement Finn’s Law.
Dame Vera has welcomed the news that ministers have backed public opinion on Finn’s Law, following the announcement that today (15 June) a second reading of the bill was heard in parliament. The proposal will further protect police horses, police dogs and guide dogs from attack and ensure people who attack service animals are jailed for up to 5 years.
Finn’s Law was named after the police dog which was stabbed whilst pursuing a suspect with his handler PC David Wardell.
Northumbria PCC said: “Finn was a brave service dog, who ultimately saved the life of a police officer. The injuries inflicted on Finn were horrific and we all have a duty to ensure service animals are protected from attackers. Police officers in Northumbria are proud of their dogs and horses and we are delighted to hear that ministers have listened to the strong public opinion that has supported this campaign.
“I very much hope that we will see a positive outcome from today’s debate that will go towards raising animal welfare standards in our country.”
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