Movements of horses without passports from sales

Horse Passport Regulations 2009 – Full details can be found on: www.defra.gov.uk

It has become increasingly obvious that local authorities are interpreting the legislation for horses to be accompanied by a passport in varying ways, with some being more lenient than others. This has led to boxes being stopped on the way back from bloodstock sales and threats of prosecution from some councils despite DEFRA advice that a photocopy of a passport would be sufficient as thoroughbred stock are unable to be entered in sales without having a passport presented. The BHB Industry Committee are looking at producing a briefing for DEFRA which would enable the department to issue clear and pragmatic advice to all council enforcement officers.