HC Deb 14 February 2003 vol 400 c85W
Mr. Wood

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the Government's policy is on the Equine Welfare (Ragwort Control) Bill introduced by the hon. Member for Ryedale (Mr. Greenway). [97651]

Alun Michael

The Government will consider the Equine Welfare (Ragwort Control) Bill in accordance with the procedures established for dealing with Private Member's Bills. These procedures provide for a debate at the appropriate time and the Government's position will be made clear at that stage.

Defra is already taking steps to control the spread of Ragwort in accordance with the procedures set out in my response given to the hon. Member for Totnes (Mr. Steen) on 7 November 2002, Official Report, columns 685–86W.