Horse owners’ opinions sought on plans for new animal health body

Horse owners are being asked for their opinion on the government’s plan to set up a new body to administer animal health policy.

Defra wants the body to increase involvement and trust from animal keepers; so they, including horse keepers, will be represented on its management board.

The government is proposing horse keepers and farmers may be charged a levy — dubbeda “horse tax” — to help with preparing for emerging diseases, to take some of the financial strain of UK taxpayers.

Defra and representatives of the horse industry are meeting next Wednesday to discuss details of the proposals, which have been out for consultation for three months. All responses to the plans must be received by 30 June — and the horse industry would like your input.

To have your say, click here to fill in a small survey.

To complete the document, you will have to register as a user on our forum — but registration is quick and free.

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