§ Mr. Greenwayasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the measures he takes to secure the welfare of horses and ponies.
§ Mrs. FennerThe Protection of Animals Acts 1911 to 1964 provide the main welfare protection for horses and ponies for which my right hon. and learned Friend the Home Secretary is responsible. When they are on agricultural land, equines are protected by part I of the Agriculture (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1968 which is the responsibility of the Agriculture Ministers. As for the welfare of equines in transit, protection is provided by the Transit of Animals (Road and Rail) Order 1975 which is enforced by the local authorities. In 1979, Agriculture Ministers issued a code of practice for the guidance of operators of horse, pony and donkey markets, sales and fairs.