British Horse Society comments on passport policy letter from Defra

The British Horse Society (BHS) has today commented on the letter it has received from Defra, addressed to all equine Passport Issuing Organisations (PIOs).

'Having received a letter from Defra regarding the policy on approval of horse passport silhouette completion, The British Horse Society is extremely concerned about the economic impact this will have on owners of equines.

When the Minister, the Rt Hon Alun Michael, first introduced the horse passport scheme it was understood that the intention was for passports to be produced and issued by PIOs at the most economic price possible. By restricting the 'Competent Authority' [to complete a silhouette] to a veterinary surgeon, or an owner whose horse has been micro-chipped, will considerably increase the cost to horse owners.'

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