AN MP has hit out at electric dog collars, claiming they are cruel.

It is estimated that 300,000 of the devices, which are designed to administer an electric shock to train dogs, are in use in the country.

The Animal Welfare Bill, designed to outlaw the devices, is going through Parliament and Basildon and Billericay Tory MP John Baron supports the move.

He said: “Electric dog collars are cruel and have a negative impact on dog welfare. There is no place for them in today’s society.”