§ Mr. RosindellTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make a statement on horse welfare in the United Kingdom; and what plans she has to improve horse welfare. [122204]
§ Mr. BradshawThe Department has begun a review of animal welfare legislation relating to captive, domestic and sporting animals. The intention is to update and consolidate the legislation into one Animal Welfare Act. The new legislation would be pro-active and would allow action to be taken before an animal suffers if it is not being given appropriate care. Areas for consideration under the new Bill include licensing of livery yards and a statutory code of practice on tethering. My Department has been in consultation with a number or interested parties about the review and we aim to have a public consultation on a draft Bill early next year.