'Horse Industry is Vibrant': Alun Michael
22/03/05

Rural Affairs Minister Alun Michael will today (Tuesday) address the annual National Equine Forum (NEF) at the Royal Veterinary College, London.

The NEF is one of the most important gatherings of the horse industry in the calendar year, bringing together many aspects of this diverse industry and providing a discussion platform for a variety of equine issues.

Reflecting on the past year, Alun Michael said:

"We have seen continued strong development in the equine world and its partnership with government, which sets an extremely solid base for the future of this vibrant industry.

"For example, I recently launched a draft strategy for the horse in England and Wales, in partnership with the British Horse Industry Confederation. The draft strategy aims to increase the economic value of the industry and enhance its contribution to social, educational, health and sporting life.

"Backed by the UK's leading horse industry representatives and veterinary profession, we also introduced the horse passports system. Horse passports are a vitally important measure needed to protect animal welfare and human health. These equine records prevent certain veterinary medicines that may adversely affect human health from entering the food chain.

"Significant progress has been made to create a National Equine Database. This joint venture between Defra and the horse industry will be used to improve standards of horse welfare, through disease surveillance and control. It will also aid the successful breeding of high quality horses and provides the first reliable figure for the number of horses, and a guide to their location, which will assist in monitoring the effectiveness of the passport system and the control of disease.

"We have improved off-road access for horse riders, and published a new version of the Conservation Walks and Rides Register, listing over 2,000 public rides and walks.

"Significant gains have been made for horses under the Common Agricultural Policy. Land grazed by horses is now eligible for payment under the new Single Payment Scheme.

"We are also currently working with the horse industry on a Health and Welfare Strategy for the Horse. The health and welfare of horses is being advanced by promoting effective control of common ragwort under a code of practice under the Ragwort Control Act 2003. This poisonous plant can cause serious - and ultimately fatal - liver damage to horses. The code will encourage the control of ragwort through good practice and good neighbourliness.

"Last November, we launched the National Fallen Stock Scheme . It is open to horse owners and to horse businesses, on terms that have the general support of horse industry representatives. Horse owners who join will have access to competitive prices and the reassurance of knowing immediately who to contact to arrange for disposal at what can be a difficult time.

"In these and other ways the Government is working for the good of horses; for people who ride, own, or work with horses; and for the sustainable benefits which horses bring to economies and communities.

"I am delighted to see the horse industry more determined than ever before to create a strong and sustainable future for itself. We want to hear the views of everybody involved with horses, on the strategy proposals and the future of the industry."