‘Disappointing’ end to Animals Act Private Members Bill

A Private Members’ Bill seeking to protect animal owners from unfair compensation claims has failed in the House of Commons.

Conservative MP Stephen Crabb introduced the Bill to amend the Animals Act 1971 with the aim of limiting liability of damage caused by animals such as horses.

The Bill, drafted by the Country Land and Business Association, received its second reading last Friday, 14 March. But despite winning the Commons vote, because fewer than 40 MPs were present, it failed to proceed.

Mr Crabb said: “We had support from the government, rural and equine communities but not enough MPs. I’m very disappointed.”

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound (20 March, ’08)

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