2CFBCTX Port of Dover & white cliffs Exit Sortie route signs horse box lorry truck departing off of ferry boat driving along four lane flyover Kent England UK
British Equestrian (BEF) is gathering evidence to lobby Government on what needs to change and is asking people to contact them with details of their experiences, particularly at border control posts (BCPs).
The Government’s environment, food and rural affairs (EFRA) committee has also launched a call for evidence as part of an inquiry into moving animals across borders post-Brexit. The deadline for this is 17 March.
BEF interim chief executive Iain Graham said the federation is “acutely aware” of how the new requirements are affecting the equestrian community.
“Everyone did what was possible to prepare for the transition based on the information available but, until it’s put into practice, you don’t have a full picture,” he said.
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“We’re now getting first-hand accounts of the issues and what barriers are in place, and we can bring about a greater focus in our activity.
“The equine industry is a major contributor to the UK economy, over £4bn, and we will do what’s possible to safeguard the livelihoods of those who contribute. Competitors, breeders, producers, show organisers and trade companies are all feeling the impact, and we will make our representation to Government to help find a way forward.
“We have to accept the legislation in place at present but, working with our stakeholders, we can find ways to improve, streamline and digitalise the processes involved.”
The BEF has been working with the British Horse Council at national Government level and the International Horse Sport Confederation to find ways to improve the situation. An independent equine sport and business working group has also been set up to represent riders, operators, producers, breeders and show organisers.
Areas the BEF has identified as “needing immediate review” are the export health certificates and the manual process of sending these to BCPs.
It is also pushing for improvements on waiting times at BCPs, which is a cause for equine welfare concern, and wants a telephone hotline established, with Defra’s assistance, so anyone having issues can seek instant help.
A Defra webinar on 4 November explained in detail the steps anyone taking horses from Britain to EU member states
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Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.
