Swann & Butler Back the Campaign for More Robust Horse Smuggling Laws

South Antrim MP Robin Swann and UUP Agriculture Spokesperson Robbie Butler MLA have backed World Horse Welfare’s campaign to tackle horse smuggling to and from the UK.

Mr Swann said:

“Unfortunately, there is a flow of horses smuggled into the UK and Ireland from mainland Europe each year. This smuggling is usually done for monetary gain and the harsh reality of this smuggling is horses crammed into vehicles and trailers, with little or no food and water, and without rest.

“These horses are not declared and a result the smugglers avoid tax and undermine our biosecurity. 

“There is a clear need for this issue to be addressed and I’m pleased to support World Horse Welfare’s campaign to tackle this scourge – starting by addressing the use of Britain as a land bridge for smugglers who are transporting horses without the necessary checks or paperwork.”

AERA Committee Chair Robbie Butler MLA said:

“The protection of horses and the need to ensure there is a more regulated system for the equine industry has been a long-standing policy for the UUP and it remains an important objective. 

“Both Westminster and Stormont have a role to play in the tackling of the unacceptable smuggling and inhumane treatment of horses.”

During her time in the Assembly, former Ulster Unionist MLA Sandra Overend progressed a Private Member’s Bill to have horses recognised as an agricultural animal, with the intention of seeing greater regulation to protect the animal.