Local MEP probes EU Commission on horse import rules. Vicky Ford, MEP for the East of England, has written to the European Commission asking for more information on the rules for importing horses into the EU. Mrs Ford recently met with representatives from the Thoroughbred Breeders Association in Newmarket, Suffolk. They told her about African Horse Sickness and they are concerned that the EU might consider relaxing rules on importing horses from Sub-Saharan Africa. Currently horses imported from this region have to be quarantined in a third country for a substantial amount of time. Horse breeders are concerned that any lower quarantine could lead to the spread of African Horse Sickness in the UK and other European countries. This is a highly infectious and deadly disease affecting horses, mules and donkeys. An outbreak in the UK would this be terrible for the animals, but it would have a devastating effect on the economy. The thoroughbred breeding and racing industry is worth over £3.45bn per annum to the UK. Mrs Ford wants to ensure that the Commission consults all relevant stakeholders, including veterinary experts, equine breeders and owners before contemplating any changes to quarantine rules. She said, “Many people don’t realise that the equine industry is such a huge contributor both to the rural economy and to UK exports. In the East of England there are thousands of people employed in horse-related businesses, especially in the Newmarket area. African Horse Sickness is a disease similar to Bluetongue in sheep. If it came into the UK it could be disastrous for our horses and ponies. We must make sure proper quarantine periods are respected.”
Posted on: Thu, 04 Jul 2013 12:15:01 +0000
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