Westminster Dog of the Year cancelled due to safety concerns over protests at Parliament

Westminster Dog of the Year, a contest where MPs pit their furry companions against each other, has been cancelled due to safety concerns. 

The Kennel Club announced its decision to axe this year’s contest on Friday evening. 

A statement said: “This is due to concerns about the increase in protests around Parliament; ensuring the safety of the dogs and the MPs taking part is absolute priority.”

It had been due to run on Thursday.

A winner will still be announced, based purely on public votes. 

According to the Kennel Club the contest “celebrates the unique bond between man and dog – and aims to promote responsible dog ownership”.

It is open to all parliamentarians’ dogs, regardless of “breed, creed or pawlitical persuasion”.

James Cleverly, the Conservative Party chair, and Matt Hancock, the health secretary, were both set to take part. 

Last year’s winner was Alex Norris, MP for Nottingham North, with his border collies Boomer and Corona.