A HAMPSHIRE MP has backed plans to get microchips in all dogs after expressing her fears about the numbers of attacks on people.

New regulations will introduced from April 2016 requiring all dogs to be registered with an authorised national commercial database.

Other initiatives include amending the Dangerous Dogs Act, to help protect children, and those who have to visit private properties, including healthcare and utility workers and postmen.

However this will not protect those who have illegally entered a private property.

MP for Romsey and Southampton North, Caroline Nokes, said: “I am pleased that the Government is taking action to deal with the problems caused by irresponsible dog ownership and improve animal welfare.

“I have become increasingly concerned about complaints of aggressive dogs and irresponsible ownership.

“While the majority of people and animals do not cause problems, some attacks have been quite vicious.

“These proposals will help to protect people attacked on private property and also help councils and charities save money on kennelling and re-homing costs.”

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