Control of Horses (Wales) Act 2014
The Control of Horses (Wales) Act 2014 (the Act) gives local authorities the powers to seize and impound horses, ponies, mules or any equine animals that are found fly grazing, straying or abandoned anywhere in Wales. Fly grazing is when owners of animals intentionally or negligently allow those animals to graze on land without the consent of the owner of the land or when consent has been withdrawn.
The Explanatory Notes to the Act provide detailed commentary on the various provisions.
Coming into force:
The Act came into force on 28 January 2014, which was the day after the day it received Royal Assent, in accordance with section 10.
Subordinate legislation made under the Act:
No subordinate legislation has been made under this Act.
Consideration of the legislation by the Senedd:
The Bill was introduced by Alun Davies MS, who was Minister for Natural Resources and Food at the time, on 14 October 2013. It was passed by Senedd Cymru (known then as the National Assembly for Wales) on 10 December 2013.
More information about the Bill is available on the Senedd’s website, including a record of the passage of the Bill through Senedd and the Explanatory Memorandum that was prepared by the Welsh Government (on introduction of the Bill).
The Act received Royal Assent on 27 January 2014.
Related articles and information:
The Welsh Government produced guidance for local authorities in January 2014 on the operation of the Act.