Question to the Ministry of Justice:

What recent assessment he has made of the effectiveness of sentencing for dog theft.

We recognise the deep distress the theft of a much-loved pet can cause which is why robust laws are already in place to firmly deal with offenders who commit such abhorrent crimes.

Sentencing is a matter for our independent courts. Sentencing guidelines acknowledge that theft which causes emotional distress, or where the items stolen were of substantial value to the loser, regardless of monetary worth, will indicate a higher level of seriousness and the offender should be sentenced accordingly.

Discussions are underway between myself, the Environment Secretary and the Home Secretary to consider further action on the issue of pet theft.