THE Cotswolds’ MP has urged the government to change the culture of pedigree dog breeding in Britain following a BBC One television documentary.

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP spoke after the documentary, entitled Pedigree Dogs Exposed, criticised The Kennel Club for insisting traits be bred into pedigrees, causing them pain and endangering their lives.

Mr Clifton-Brown said he was pleased to see Gloucestershire’s Carol Fowler appear in the documentary.

Mr Clifton-Brown supports her campaign against trait breeding, which she launched after becoming aware of the syringomyelia genetic disorder that affects Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, the breed she owns.

He said he spoke with leading veterinarians, scientists, the club’s officials and senior officials from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

The MP will also write to Lord Rooker, the government’s Animal Welfare Minister, encouraging him to arrange a meeting with Carol and himself to discuss the issue.

Mr Clifton-Brown said the documentary “showed the persistent criticism and ridicule that Carol has faced from breeders who have a vested interest in seeing the current status quo maintained”.

He added: “However, I know Carol to be a hugely determined lady and I will continue to assist her in persuading the government that they must act now to change the culture of pedigree dog breeding and showing in this country.”

Bill Lambert, Kennel Club spokesman, refuted the documentary’s allegations.

He said the club has introduced health testing schemes and changed breed standards, while working to improve canine health.

Mr Lambert said: "We fully understand how upsetting it can be to see one’s pet suffer from illness and why Carol Fowler asked her MP to take this up in Parliament.

“We have recently approached Mr Clifton-Brown's office requesting a meeting to update him on the work we are doing to improve the health of pedigree dogs, following questions that he tabled in Parliament."