Dangerous Dog Law 'Does Not Go Far Enough' Plans to tackle the growing problem of out-of-control dogs do not go far enough, according to a group of MPs. The Government has announced plans to close a loophole which allowed owners of dogs to escape prosecution if the animal attacked someone in a private property. This move has been backed by the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee. But it argues the plans fell short of creating a "comprehensive and effective regime for tackling the increasing problem of out-of-control dogs." The committee's Tory chairwoman Anne McIntosh said: "Eight people, including six children, have died as a result of dog attacks since 2007. Annual costs to the NHS of treating dog attack injuries are around £3m, and some eight assistance dogs and hundreds of livestock are attacked each month. The Government will legislate to strengthen the law in the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Bill, but the committee wants it amended to address its concerns. Ms McIntosh said: "Strong measures to prevent dog attacks are conspicuously absent - in particular targeted Dog Control Notices. The Government must bring together the disparate dog control and breeding legislation into a single, comprehensive Act. British Veterinary Association president Peter Jones said: "We are delighted that this cross-party group of MPs has given such strong support for more preventive measures. Instead of making more mistakes with hastily made legislation we are asking the Government to think again and reconsider introducing Dog Control Notices. DCNs have already been introduced in Scotland and have the support of veterinary surgeons, dog welfare organisations, and enforcers, as well as many parliamentarians. A Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs spokesman said: "This Government is taking urgent action to protect the public from dangerous dogs."