I would like to assure you that the Government shares the public’s high regard for animal welfare, including the welfare of racehorses. The welfare needs of racehorses, both during their racing lives and afterwards, should be a priority for all those involved in the horseracing sector.
I am aware of calls, including from my colleague George Eustice MP, to allocate an annual grant through the Horserace Betting Levy Board to fund aftercare provision for vulnerable horses leaving the racing industry. I note this was raised in a recent Westminster Hall debate and the Minister confirmed he would raise the important issue of the welfare of horses no longer racing with the British Horseracing Authority.
The racing industry’s independent Horse Welfare Board (HWB) was formed in 2019 and includes members from across the racing industry, veterinarians and animal health and welfare experts. The HWB set out a strategic plan to improve the welfare of horses before, during and after their racing careers in its 2020 publication ‘A Life Well Lived’. I have provided the link to the HWB here:
British Horse Racing Welfare Strategy
The UK has some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world and it is right for us to cement our status as a global leader by continuing to raise the bar. Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, cruelty to animals is an offence punishable by an unlimited fine or prison sentences of up to five years, or both.
I am assured that the RSPCA can investigate allegations of animal welfare offences where additional powers are needed, for example to seize animals. I understand that local authorities, the Animal & Plant Health Agency and the police often work in close partnership to ensure that the welfare of animals, including horses, is protected. In addition, the equine charity World Horse Welfare advises on cases of horse welfare.
Further, I am aware that all owners must microchip their horses, ponies, and donkeys, which can help local authorities and police to track down the owners of abandoned horses and ensure that appropriate action is taken. In 2022, the Government held a consultation on improvements to equine identification and traceability in England. I understand that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs plans to improve rather than eliminate the current horse passport system. Notably this will include increased digitisation to make the system more efficient, accurate and easier to use for horse owners. This will better support equine traceability for disease control, equine welfare, trade and public health.
Finally, I would encourage anyone with evidence that a racehorse has suffered unnecessarily to report it to the local authorities.
