Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Dogs (DNA Databases)

07 July 2021 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Andrew Griffith Con Arundel and South Downs

Agriculture & Rural AffairsEnvironment

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Andrew Griffith raised concerns about dogs (dna databases) in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • This Bill proposes a national register of dog DNA as a crime-fighting tool and biosecurity measure.
  • The legislation aims to address the increase in dog theft and the public health risk posed by dog fouling.
  • It seeks to unify existing microchip registers into a standardized national format.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Andrew Griffith Con Arundel and South Downs

This Bill seeks to create a national register of doggy DNA as a more secure, more humane and better long-term alternative to microchipping. It aims to fight crime, improve biosecurity, help the UK’s leadership in animal genomics, and repay the loyalty of the nation’s faithful four-legged friends. The Bill addresses current issues such as dog theft, which reportedly increased by 250% in 2020, and tackles dog fouling, which has been linked to toxocariasis, a parasite that is a particular risk to young children. It also seeks to unify existing microchip registers into a nationally standardised format.

Other contributors (1)
  • Andrew Griffith Con Arundel and South Downs

    The Bill would provide a single, consistent point of contact for updates, making it easier for owners and authorities to get the information they need. It addresses concerns about microchips being inserted incorrectly or cut out by thieves, while offering a non-invasive DNA swab inside a dog’s mouth as an alternative. The cost of genome sequencing has fallen rapidly, with a whole human genome now costing less than $300 and expected to fall further. A phased introduction over a decade would allow for the expansion of pet testing and cost reduction.

Get updates like this by email
▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy