The draft Docking of Working Dogs' Tails (England) Regulations 2007 were not withdrawn.
The regulations were debated in Grand Committee of the House of Lords on 7 March (Hansard ref. GC13-GC20). An objection was raised on the regulations during the debate, which meant that the formal motion to consider the regulations was withdrawn. A new motion referring the regulations for debate on the Floor of the House was subsequently tabled. A debate on the Floor of the House has been arranged for Tuesday 27 March.
My noble Friend Lord Rooker and my officials have had constructive informal dialogue with peers since the debate on 7 March.
The regulations are expected to come into force on 6 April, at the same time as the main provisions of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.