HL Deb 11 January 1999 vol 596 cc3-4WA
Baroness Wharton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they consider that those involved in artificial insemination of horses should be properly qualified and subject to some sort of regulation. [HL244]

The Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Lord Donoughue)

We agree with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons that artificial insemination of horses may be undertaken by trained and competent lay persons. This will require an exemption order to the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 and separate legislation under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 1984, laying down welfare and disease control measures. This issue is still under discussion with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Baroness Wharton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the regulators of the veterinary profession (the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons) are in favour of legislation to regulate (a) inseminators of horses and (b) equine dentists. [HL245]

Lord Donoughue

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons has asked Her Majesty's Government to consider regulation of inseminators of horses and equine dentists. Discussions are continuing with the College.

Baroness Wharton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What action they are taking to protect horses from pain and suffering caused by unqualified people acting as equine dentists. [HL246]

Lord Donoughue

Those equine dental procedures that are considered to be acts of veterinary surgery may be undertaken only by a registered veterinary surgeon or by a registered dentist at the request of a veterinary surgeon.