HL Deb 06 December 1977 vol 387 cc1605-6WA
Lord HOUGHTON of SOWERBY

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What regulations apply to auction sales of horses.

The MINISTER of STATE, HOME OFFICE (Lord Harris of Greenwich)

There are no specific regulations or statutory provisions. The Protection of Animals Act 1911 and the Protection of Animals (Scotland) Act 1912 protect all captive and domestic animals against cruelty and unnecessary suffering. In addition the Transit of Animals (Road and Rail) Order 1975 provides for the proper treatment of animals in transit. My right honourable friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food is at present considering making an order under the Diseases of Animals Act 1950 for the protection of horses at markets.