In support of tail docking

The assertion by the minister for animal health and welfare, Ross Finnie, that veterinary bodies are unanimous on the issue of tail docking for working dogs may be true (Letters, 10 February), but research by the British Association for Shooting and Conservation in Scotland shows that some 31 per cent of vets in Scotland support tail docking.

BASC Scotland seeks an assurance that all the evidence presented to him is made available to the environment and rural development committee prior to its consideration of this legislation. We have also sought assurance that, given the weight of evidence he believes is in favour of his position, a free vote will be allowed for members of the committee.

JAMES SCOTT

Press officer, BASC Scotland

Trochry, Dunkeld

Perthshire