Trainee hearing dog Max has proven a hit in winning MPs approval for new legislation that will open up access to public places for the deaf and hearing impaired, National MP Marie Hasler said today.

Ms Hasler's Dog Control (Hearing Dogs) Amendment Bill, which will give hearing dogs for the deaf the same access to public places as guide dogs for the blind, has won the support of all parties so it can go through the select committee process.

"Max, a hearing dog training to be the 'ears' for a family of four, wrote 'a personal letter' on my behalf to all MPs asking for their help to support the bill. I'm delighted his 'woof, woof, woof' call won the ear of MPs.

"This bill is needed to open up access for deaf and hearing-impaired people to public places with their dogs. The dogs are also a helpful companion and security for these people. "The needs of the deaf often go unnoticed because they have an invisible disability. They deserve the opportunity for the greater independence this bill will allow," Ms Hasler said.

The bill was introduced to Parliament on Wednesday.

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Gordon Campbell: On the Sony cyber attack

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