§ 43. Mr. Harry GreenwayTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he expects to introduce the Department's code of practice for horse sales and markets; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Donald ThompsonThe Government's response to the Farm Animal Welfare Council report on the welfare of livestock at markets, announced in October 1987, accepted that legislation should be introduced to cover horse markets and sales. This legislation, which will be introduced as an order made under the Animal Health Act 1981, will provide statutory safeguards. The code of practice referred to by my hon. Friend will provide supplementary guidance. Proposals for the new order and the code of practice will be issued shortly for public consultation.