Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 16th September 2014
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Defra announces agreement to export UK horses to China
Horse
UK thoroughbred and jump horses can now be exported to China.
New Export Health Certificate will allow for the export of horses to China with immediate effect

An agreement to export horses in the UK to China has been announced by Defra as part of plans to help grow the world leading equine industry.

Speaking on Friday, environment secretary Elizabeth Truss announced that UK thoroughbred and jump horses can now be exported to China after a crucial agreement was reached with the Chinese authorities helping grow the UK's £7 billion equine industry.

The new Export Health Certificate will allow for the export of horses to China with immediate effect. Initially worth up to £10 million a year for the UK economy, it is hoped that the value will rise significantly in coming years.

Environment secretary, Elizabeth Truss said: "I'm delighted that days after Great Britain finished top of the medal table at the World Equestrian Games, we're able to announce a deal that could bring up to £10 million of new trade to our shores.

"We've long been a world leader in racing, eventing and breeding - it's only right that our historic yet innovative equine industry is able to export its top-quality horses and  expertise across the globe.

"This deal is only the latest in our determined push to boost British exports and I look forward to working with this £7 billion industry to ensure that it goes from strength to strength, growing our economy and providing enjoyment to millions."

Professor Tim Morris, the equine representative for the Animal Health and Welfare Board for England, said: "This country leads the world with its range of top quality horses and ponies. We have a unique combination of the best thoroughbred and sport horses, and a wide diversity of unique breeds from Shetland ponies to Shire horses, and the equine industry, particularly the breeding sector, welcomes this access to the developing Chinese market.

"Agreed with industry, this deal offers the best possible terms for the UK's equine industry and will enable industry to meet strong demand."

The first UK horses are expected to be exported to China by the end of this year.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.